Lakewood High School is big on student expression. One way this is done is through spirit week. There are four major spirit weeks: Homecoming, the Holidays, Winter Formal and Prom. The Student Council presents various themes, which are announced weeks in advance, allowing students to start preparing.
The themes are open for creativity. There are a few limitations beyond the theme itself. The themes provide a lot of variety, which can help include all students throughout the school.
This past week, there were five themes for the students to follow. Monday was Icy Blue Day, Skater vs. Skier on Tuesday, North Pole Day on Wednesday, Pajama Day on Thursday, and finally Silly Sweater Day on Friday.
Seniors Jacob Stoll, Isaac Norris and Moo Blue Soe are extremely passionate about Spirit Week. Norris said, “It really demonstrates the unity of the school and shows the collaboration of friends and classmates to come together and celebrate.” Spirit weeks offer a fun break during weeks that add stress to a student’s mind, like midterms week.
Moo Blue said, “It shows how we as a school can come together and celebrate these holidays.” A key aspect to notice about this spirit week is that it is not centered around Christmas to reflect Lakewood High School’s diversity. “You can come to school and match with your friends to create that bond, or even just walk through the halls and see how creative people can get,” he added.
Stoll and his classmates agree that the single themes are more enjoyable and meaningful than the competition days. Stoll says, “It’s not about competition, it’s about unity. Spirit week should allow us to uplift one another and agree, rather than the competition and judgment that can come with the two different teams.” While some students appreciate the competitive themes, like the “BBQ Dad vs. Soccer Mom” rivalry themes often seen around Homecoming, the current variety ensures fun for everyone.
These seniors have one piece of advice for the underclassmen, and that is, “Just do it. Participate each day, match with your friends, and make the memories that will last a lifetime.” As seniors heading to college next year, they will miss these spirit weeks, but they will not look back with regret because of how they participated.
Freshman Addison Gaal is already taking that advice to heart. Gaal dove into spirit week and had a fantastic time. She said, “It makes me excited to get up and ready, knowing that I am going to wear something fun and see others doing the same.” Not only does participation affect you, but those around you as well. “My favorite spirit day was pajama day, especially with this cold weather. It was easy to participate,” Gaal added.
Jessica Murphy, the advisor of the Student Council, is thrilled with the participation of Lakewood High School. Student Body President, Paisley Norris, shares this enthusiasm, saying, “I love going through the halls and complimenting everyone’s outfits, and I can tell when they put a lot of effort into finding something fun and creative.”
Spirit week makes the bonds of Lakewood High School students stronger every day. Murphy appreciates the originality she observes, stating, “I love to see how each student interprets the theme and the product they come up with.” Norris highlighted the positive impact on staff as well, adding, “I love ‘Dress Like Your Teacher Day’. You can really tell the impact that some teachers have on their students and how dedicated the Lakewood High School staff is at making their school a better place.”
Spirit Week is a way to showcase Lakewood High School’s message. The school encourages all students to express themselves and have fun. Spirit Week offers students a break from academics to focus on sharing laughs with friends and expressing themselves. Lakewood High School hopes to continue their spirit weeks and for their students to remain creative and have a great time.
