As the ‘24-25 school year comes to an end, students have had a lot of moments to reflect on. Events hosted by the school, unforgettable memories, and the excitement of summer break looming over all. However, some of the events hosted by Waterford High School had a bigger impact on students than others.
To set the tone of the year, the school hosted an “Under the Sea” themed homecoming dance. Homecoming is a dance that everyone goes to. It became an unforgettable moment for many, with students trying on dresses, planning rides, and finding dates. Homecoming set the stage for what was to come this school year. Sophomore Jenny said, “My favorite school event would have to be homecoming because I got to hang out with my friends.”
The day before Homecoming, there was a homecoming special football game for students and families that brought the community together in school spirit. Freshman Alexandra Cava said, “There’s just something really fun about seeing everyone hyped up, cheering for the team, and going all out with school spirit. It feels like we’re all part of something together.” During halftime, the school hosted the PowderPuff Game! The night was full of “friendly competition and school spirit” just like Mr. Samuelson wanted it to be.
The homecoming game was not the only football game that students loved. Students and community members enjoyed watching the home games at Waterford High. Every game, the bleachers were full of school spirit, support, and laughter, even when it was freezing outside.
One of the most memorable and spirited days was the Pep Rally. Students engaged in random games, cheer performances, and seniors followed the tradition of running through the fieldhouse, showing their Lancer spirit. Freshman Brooklyn said, “I would probably say the pep rally is my favorite. I really enjoyed performing our halftime routine.”
Another event full of school spirit was field day. We haven’t had one this year, but last year really set the tone for what’s gonna come this year. Junior Mari shared why field day stood out to her personally: “Field day was my favorite last year.” It even included a courtyard fight, which added a bit of chaos to the fun. The day featured more than 25 different activities designed to entertain and engage students. Outdoor activities included backyard games like kickball, tennis baseball, wiffleball, volleyball, ultimate frisbee, and frisbee golf. Indoor students could enjoy trivia, ESports, karaoke, and basketball. For those looking for something more relaxed, there were arts & crafts, garden design, and quiet rooms.
Some events were organized by clubs, like the Diversity Club. Students from various nationalities gathered to connect and share their cultures. Mari Kooyip also expressed her appreciation for this experience: “My other favorite event would have to be cultural night because it represents a lot of diversity and culture. The food was good and the food trucks were cool too.”
One of the most anticipated events of the year was prom. With students showing off their dresses, organizing promposals, and preparing for a magical evening, it was everything the students would have hoped for. The night included a brownie and cookie bar, stuffed shells and chicken dinner, and a drink bar featuring virgin margaritas and pina coladas. A photo booth captured the special moments so students can remember these exceptional memories. Junior Gabriella Pagano summed it up simply: “I got to dress up as a pretty princess and take pictures of myself.”
Senior Tionna Julius also shares just how much prom meant to she, saying, “My favorite event of the year was prom because it was so fun seeing everyone there and having so much fun. Honestly might have to be hands down my favorite event of the year as a senior.”
Students loved the events hosted this year, but it’s clear that the students had some favorites. Prom, pep rallies, football games, or any event that brought the school together as a whole was the top pick of all the events hosted this school year.
Students hope to see just as great, if not better events in the coming years of Waterford High, and it’s clear to see that these events unite the school in many ways.
