The prospect of going back to school over the weekend does not exactly whip most children into an excitable frenzy, but one event that was recently held at Darbydale Elementary managed to do just that. On May 14, hundreds of children and adults flocked to the school on London-Groveport Road to participate in fierce cake-walks, compete in challenging coordination games, and generally just have a good time during the beloved Spring Carnival. Hosted by the school’s Parent Teacher Association, the three-hour event raises funds that provide students with the opportunity to attend field trips and purchase classroom supplies and books throughout the year. “We haven’t been able to hold this event for the past two years because of the pandemic,” said PTA president Leigh Counts, “so we were not sure how many people would show up for it. But this turnout has been beyond our expectations and we are so thankful to the community for coming out and supporting this fundraising event.” One of the biggest attractions of the day was a meet-and-greet with Batman (portrayed by Brad Johnson). Here, super fans Ashley Fitch and his five-year-old granddaughter Jailynn hang on tight as the Caped Crusader prepares to use the grappling hook to lift them to safety. Johnson, who attends similar events courtesy of Batman of Columbus Ohio, is the husband of Darbydale teacher Ally Johnson.
