When people think of school spirit, they usually think about football season or big fall events, but February has a lot going on too.
Even though it’s colder and the semester is in full swing, there’s still so much happening around school that keeps the energy alive. Clubs are active, winter sports are competing hard, spring sports are preparing to start, and music programs are constantly rehearsing. A lot of what builds school spirit actually happens behind the scenes at practices, meetings, and planning sessions people don’t always see.
One of the biggest events this month is todays pep rally. According to Assistant Principal Brayton Mendenhall, the main goal of the pep rally is “To celebrate and highlight the accomplishments of the Giants, to spread some joy and school spirit, and to have a good time together.”
The rally is meant to bring everyone into the same space to recognize achievements and just enjoy being part of the school community. Approximatley 1,200 students pre-registered to attend the rally, which will be shown live throughout school via BDTV.
This pep rally will look a little different from ones in the past. Mendenhall explained that this time, there has been more student input on the games and performances. The sophomore class officers, in particular, have been very involved in helping shape what the rally will look like.
In previous years, administrators and teachers mostly chose the activities, but last semester sophomore and senior class officers asked to have more student voice in the process. The administration welcomed that involvement and worked alongside them to plan the event.
A lot more goes into planning a pep rally than most students realize. Mendenhall shared that there are many behind-the-scenes tasks that have to be completed just to make the event possible. This includes getting students registered, printing and distributing wristbands, pairing teachers to share classes, organizing how students will enter the gym on time, changing the bell schedule, and communicating with parents. Beyond that, the school also coordinates with BDTV, theater, Spotlight, Keyhole, band, cheerleaders, coaches, and class officers to organize the actual performances and activities.
As for what students can expect, there will be some exciting moments. This year, there will be a duet performance from the orchestra, and volunteers will be pulled from the audience to participate in one of the games, adding an element of surprise and fun.
February proves that school spirit doesn’t stop after fall sports end. It continues through the dedication of students, staff, and leaders who work both on stage and behind the scenes to create moments like this pep rally bringing the Giants together to celebrate, support one another, and have fun.
