Homecoming is a highly anticipated week full of spirit, fun outfits, pep rallies, and of course the homecoming dance. Every school has their own traditions regarding homecoming, however LFHS has a unique one that brings spirit amongst the students and staff, along with people in the community. This tradition is the annual homecoming window painting uptown Lake Forest and Lake Bluff.
All sports and clubs at LFHS are given windows to paint to showcase the importance of their club while participating in the school spirit of the exciting week. Not only are students permitted to participate, but local businesses are offered to join in on the activity.
For the first time this year, the Lake Forest Police Department was invited to participate in the window painting due to all their attributions to our school and their partnership in all school events, especially homecoming.
Director of student activities, Ashleigh Malec said the intention behind the window painting tradition is to “showcase” everything that makes LFHS what it is.
“We look to positively showcase we are one connected Lake Forest and that includes every student, staff, and community member. By painting downtown businesses, our clubs, athletic teams, and even the alumni association can show their support for our high school and celebrate the unique interests of their group,” Malec said.
The tradition is not only meant to showcase each group’s specific interests and encourage school spirit, but is meant to yield team bonding and help students connect with one another.
“Window painting is something fun to kick off the homecoming week and bring school spirit along with team/club bonding which is always great for the community,” said junior Sophia Brincat, leader of “YAF” club and Varsity Dance Team member.
For some, the annual painting brings excitement as it is the start of the anticipated week. Senior cheer team Captain Ally Lucania said what makes this tradition fun is that it kicks off homecoming and it makes the event “start to feel real.”
“It’s fun going around town and seeing all the fun windows other teams were able to paint. It’s also a fun way to spread spirit around the town and get everyone excited for homecoming,” Lucania said.
LFHS decided to invite local businesses to join in on the painting as it unites our community and brings school spirit to all members of the Lake Forest and Lake Bluff communities.
“Our businesses and community members are a part of what makes LFHS a great place to be. They are an integral support system both for our extracurriculars and in the mentoring of students,” Malec said.
Homecoming window painting is meant to showcase LFHS school spirit while including our communities spirit as well. Student Body President Kat Yakes said the painting is a “perfect example” of what LFHS strives to demonstrate in each student’s lives.
“It demonstrates not only just a community, but a spirited one. Kids will walk into their town and see what they’ll be doing in just a few short years. The blue and gold painted windows give our local residents a piece of our school spirit and allow them to join the homecoming fun with us students,” Yakes said. “I could not have asked for a better tradition, bringing spirit not only to the LFHS community but our local residents as well.”
