artwork by Andrew Villescas
Spartans gear up for this year’s round of Homecoming festivities.
On September 19, Thomas Jefferson High School will host the annual tradition of the Homecoming Dance. Homecoming is something many students anticipate, as the perfect way to ring in the new school year. Leading up to the dance is spirit week, a special week in which students dress in fun costumes that would otherwise not be allowed. Every day of spirit week has a different theme: Monday is hippie day, Tuesday is Safari Day, Wednesday is Character Day, Thursday is Western Day, and Friday is TJ spirit day, as always.
Homecoming and spirit week are made possible by TJ’s Leadership class. This class acts as Student Council, helps run the school’s events, and does service learning projects such as helping the poor by donating food and clothes, and volunteering at local middle schools. Leadership has worked hard to orchestrate fun events for the week, such as a bonfire on Monday night, and Wednesday’s DJ at lunch. Friday is the football tailgate and car decorating, as well as Powderpuff, which is a football game between Junior and Senior girls.
Friday night the annual Homecoming Football game is against Harrison. Last year the Spartans drove for over an hour to reach Harrison, where they defeated the Panthers on their Homecoming weekend. This year, Harrison comes to TJ for a chance at revenge, while TJ prepares to defend their title. “The team has been practicing and working hard for months,” said junior Colton Hook, who plays left offensive guard and defensive end, “We’re ready for this game, and ready to show everyone who we are.”
The spirit week activities will lead up to the main event, the Homecoming dance on Saturday. It will take place at TJ at 7 p.m., with tickets being $15 for a single and $25 for a couple. “I am excited for homecoming. It is always a highlight of the year, and it is going to be really fun,” said junior Jordan Prochnow.
Spirit week is a tradition at Thomas Jefferson High School that students and teachers get excited about. “It’s a celebration of the community,” explained Leadership teacher Jon Poole. “It’s a chance for kids to have fun, relax, and see their teachers and peers in a different light.” Students are ready to show off their spartan pride, and prepare for another great year at TJ.
