As Homecoming is quickly approaching, there has been a lot of controversy regarding this year’s ‘improved’ version of the event. From the “Under the Sea” theme to the activities and location, everything this year seems to be different. But what do people really think about these changes?
Senior Michaela Barry has an unwavering excitement for Homecoming, contagious to all around her. However, she mentioned that she “didn’t like Homecoming as much as last year since it was not outside.”
This is important feedback going into planning this year’s dance, as the extreme locational difference will have a large impact on the dance’s overall vibe. Students tend to have strong opinions regarding such changes.
Teacher and Student Council Advisor, Mrs. Konz, is in charge of making the final decision about homecoming’s location. While it may seem simple, there are many factors that must be taken into account.
“I think outside can be more fun and magical, however inside can feel more intimate,” Konz said. “The final call is so last minute because we have to decide the Thursday before Homecoming. Even if the weather ends up changing, we have to follow through.”
Despite the student’s preferences for either an indoor or outdoor venue, the ultimate decision depends on the weather conditions.
One aspect of Homecoming this year that is a notable change is the introduction of “Pockets of Joy.” For the first time, the Student Council will be providing mini surprises sprinkled throughout the week in hopes of engaging the entire student body.
Student Council Spirit Committee Advisor and teacher, Mrs. Crouch, is one of the biggest believers that this new concept of student surprises will be a hit.
“We want to start giving back instead of asking,” Crouch said. “For example, if you don’t feel like dressing up for Scout-Out day, we will hand out blue and gold beads in the front of the school and you can either grab them or not. Either way is fine with us as long as you at least feel included.”
It can sometimes be challenging for students to take part in the homecoming dress-up days, however by providing simpler ways for students to get involved, the school hopes to boost participation and school spirit the week leading up to homecoming. Not only will they be giving out beads, but they will also be handing out free treats, such as donuts, in the mornings.
Finally, a key element in ensuring a successful homecoming weekend is the pep rally. Senior Kat Yakes is an important figure in the pep rally decision making process.
Yakes has been working on the pep rally since the very start of the school year and will be the MC during the event.
The pep rally is widely enjoyed by the students, but students only see the fun parts of the entertaining assembly.
“Part of the planning process for pep rally includes difficult decisions which is what makes the process fun and exciting! The hardest part for me is when it comes down to the end of the day and we have to cut ideas in order to fit everything in the schedule,” Yakes said.
In reality, there are months of planning that go into the production of this detailed and tightly planned event.
