From new classes to mounds of homework, a new school year brings mixed emotions for all. To aid students
with this transition, many schools hold a Homecoming celebration. A vibrant way to open the year, Homecoming festivities range from spirit week to a student body dance.

On Nov. 1, WHS will host its annual Homecoming. In recent years, this has included a pep rally and dance, with the dance being limited to Juniors and Seniors. This is different from the expansive Homecoming celebrations large schools typically pride themselves on; WHS lacks a Homecoming football game and a spirit week. To restore dwindling school spirit, WHS must enhance Homecoming, creating the opening year excitement other schools thrive on.

Homecoming usually begins at the start of spirit week with students going all out in funny and unique costumes. West Windsor Plainsboro High School, near Princeton, participates in this trend. By incorporating a different theme voted on by students, each day during spirit week is animated. “[West Windsor’s] spirit week is something everybody looks forward to,” WWP Vice President Jacob Klein said.

On the other hand, one could not discern between WHS Homecoming week versus any other week. WHS senior Emma Pranke said, “Not having a school spirit week makes . . . Homecoming seem less significant.”

In addition, the Homecoming football game is a focal point of the season. Due to the fact that Gary Kehler Stadium does not have lights, WHS cannot facilitate a traditional Friday night game like other schools. Despite this, it would still be possible to have an afternoon game and call it a Homecoming game. “Our student spirit shines through at sporting events,” senior cheer captain Jaslene Raphael said. “Adding a game would enhance Homecoming tremendously.”

At WHS, since there is no football game on Homecoming day, the pep rally is pushed back to the half-day before Thanksgiving break. For this reason, along with its poor reputation, many students do not attend.

Acknowledging this, SGA Vice President James Furrer said, “We [the SGA] are putting out a survey for all students and teachers. Hopefully people will stay this year.”

Flourishing off of school-wide inclusion, formal outfits and music, the Homecoming dance is the climax to the week-long celebrations. In certain ways, WHS’ Homecoming dance meets expectations, providing food and drinks with a DJ. Unlike almost all other Homecoming dances, however, WHS restricts the dance to upperclassmen. This, along with lacking other traditions such as proposals, immensely lowers the energy and spirit.

WHS’ spirit needs saving, and improving Homecoming could be the first step to salvaging school pride.