Within every school resides its students. The very core of its heart. But what happens when the students’ hearts aren’t really in it? Well at that point, things start to crumble apart.
According to the National Federation of State High School Associations, “School spirit is a powerful reflection of pride, achievement and determination. It goes hand in hand with positivity and is a benchmark of a school’s holistic success.” While there are a few students with an overwhelming amount of enthusiasm, they simply cannot make up for all of those who simply have none at all. A large contributor to Dunellen High School’s lack of love might be the sudden influx of new students. The junior class alone has gained over 10 new students since 2017; a surprising amount for a school so small. New students have yet to build any connections in the new setting, and the process of adjustment can take months; years even. It is no wonder why they lack love for the school right now.
Within every school resides its students. The very core of its heart. But what happens when the students’ hearts aren’t really in it? Well at that point, things start to crumble apart. able to find a seat during a football game, or even a spot on the fence. And the girl’s soccer team would have had plenty of eyes to watch them. But in 2018, the girls barely ever had any fans, and while the football games were still packed, there was a period of time in 2017 where the lacks of fans became quite depressing. Worry not though; there are ways to increase school spirit.
One such way is to take into consideration the students’ needs. For example, when asked what they think would help make the school a better place, junior Gloriann Pimpinella stated, “Maybe if we had another spirit week or pep-rally, because that’s when classes are the most united.” And junior Olivia Newland replied in the same way, stating, “More pep-rallies and bake sales, definitely more volunteer opportunities available around the school.” There are various other ways to raise school spirit, like hosting a few more spirit weeks or holding special events more frequently in general.
School spirit is the most important thing, and can make or break a school. It has the power to either raise overall grades or see them plummet. And not only does it increase the average grade point average, but it also encourages student athletes, hard workers, and provides a sense of genuine enthusiasm in the students. All of which tend to lead to a better and brighter future.