From cheering students decked out in themed clothing every Friday night, to passionate voices filling SGA meetings, to increased participation in spirit days, it is clear that a new wave of school pride has overtaken WCHS this school year. Students are showing up in a myriad of ways to support their fellow Bulldogs both in and out of the classroom. Ms. Emmalee Kenny, the WCHS school-wide Student Government Association (SGA) sponsor, is one of the staff members leading this movement towards fostering a spirited environment where every student is included.
“I started by injecting new energy and ideas into pep rallies and events to show students that school spirit is actually fun and inclusive, and definitely not weird,” Kenny said. “The other big thing is constantly gathering feedback from SGA officers and students across all grades to make sure our events cater to the interest of the student body.”
Students’ increased school spirit has been especially highlighted at the fall pep rallies. Events that some students once dreaded are turning into a chance to have a good time whether that be through competing in musical chairs, participating in an intense tug-of-war battle or just cheering on classmates.
“Before, they were fun, but it was tough to keep everyone engaged and get all groups involved,” Kenny said. “Our goal was simply more excitement and engagement. We made them far more interactive by introducing sign-ups so anyone can get involved, teaching new school-wide cheers and hosting two separate pep rallies, one for underclassmen and one for upperclassmen, to really fuel that friendly class rivalry.”
Although thoughtful planning has been essential in increasing school spirit, ultimately, the support of the students is what has facilitated the shift. Alyssa Kessler, a WCHS senior and member of the leadership class, has served as an example for underclassmen of how to be a proud Bulldog.
“I think the seniors definitely are playing a primary role in increasing the spirit as we take so much pride in our school,” Kessler said. “Also, the leadership students had a homecoming challenge to increase school spirit where we had to dress up each day and encourage others to do the same. We all loved participating in it.”
Unsurprisingly, school spirit was at an all-time high during the week leading up to Homecoming. As planned by the SGA, each day was accompanied by a different theme. Additionally, activities like the Brain Bowl Trivia Competition and the Bulldog Basketball 5 v. 5 Tournament were implemented to get students involved and excited.
“Student participation was great this year, especially for Pajama Day, Jersey Day and Class Colors Day,” Kenny said. “Our lunchtime activities were a huge hit too, particularly the pie-off fundraiser! One huge moment was seeing students go all out wearing their class colors on the Thursday of Homecoming Week. It was fantastic to see that level of involvement.”
Sports, specifically home football games, have seen attendance and spirit like never before. In fact, so many Bulldogs packed the “Dawg Pound” at the season opener white-out game against BCC, that the fence collapsed from the weight pushing against it.
“I have seen way more people attend this year, always decked out in the theme and with signs, ready to cheer at the football games,” Kessler said. “I also think that people have not only been attending football games but also so many other sporting events to show support.”
After a period of low attendance at WCHS events and an overall lack of energy looming over the student body, this school year has been looked at by some students and staff as a breath of fresh air. Stressful school weeks, high screen times and busy extracurricular schedules have acted as barriers in the past to students participating in and being fully immersed in the WCHS experience.
“Even with social media dominating high school life, spirit events offer an essential community bond,” Kenny said.“I also think our student leaders—our SGA officers and the leadership class—have done an amazing job this year recognizing that need and making huge efforts to bring everyone together.”
School spirit may be most visible in loud, vibrant student sections, but it can be demonstrated in limitless ways. Small acts of unity and support within the WCHS community play an integral role in bringing students together and making each student feel as though they have a place. Immense progress has been made towards creating an inclusive, spirited community, but continued and strengthened support from students, staff and community members is necessary to remain on this trajectory.
“WCHS students can grow even more spirited by making sure we celebrate all student groups, clubs and teams,” Kenny said. “Try something new and make the absolute most of your high school years by creating great memories! With great events coming up like Churchill’s Got Talent, the GLOW dance, the Color Run and our Annual Community Carnival, there are countless ways to get involved and show your Bulldog pride.”
