Student Council Throws Homecoming Party

Rows of tables with baked goods lined the corridors adjacent to the gym at the on Friday. Music and the scent of barbecued hamburgers flowed through the halls. It was Homecoming: a time to celebrate being a Hornet!

Behind the tables sat members of the Student Council, the prime movers behind the event. Along with them were members of various clubs selling brownies and other treats to make money for their respective extra-curricular activities. All donned yellow T-shirts boasting, "It's All About the Bug."

Principal Jon Bernard mingled with students and parents expressing his pride in the students' initiative and creativity.

"I couldn't be more impressed with the hard work the students have put into this for the benefit of the school community," said Bernard. "It's exciting to see them start something new and bring another layer of service and fun to the school."

Organizer and senior Brittney Bythrow said she launched the Hornet celebration with help from the Student Council's officers.

"I thought it would be something fun that all students and clubs could enjoy," said Brittany. "I got involved because helping is fun, too."

Officers Julie Bash, President and Vice President Alicia Calos said they enjoyed their work on the council and bringing people together.

Bash also sits on the Massachusetts Association of School Councils and has presented to her peers at conferences held around the state.

"We learn a lot about leadership," said Bash. "It's a great opportunity."

"It's a way for our school to be represented," added Calos. "And it starts with our high school council."

Amy St. Arnaud, the club's advisor was on hand though currently on maternity leave.

"It's a way to have students work together across the spectrum of our many clubs and across grade levels. students are here bouncing on the inflatibles in the gym, playing games and dancing to the DJ's music. We can all share a common interest in the school," explained St. Arnaud. "We wanted it to feel inclusive. If kids interact in new ways they usually form new friendships and feel comfortable with it." 

The indoor activities were followed by a with rivals Manchester-Essex. Previously teachers nominated candidates for king and queen of Homecoming and the Homecoming court. Students voted on the candidates and the winners were announced at half-time. 

Tyler Kelleher and Julie Bash reign as king and queen with a court comprised of ninth-graders Kelsey Demild, Shane Bartlett, Alicia Calos and Nic Andre, tenth-graders Kristen Diamantides and Ryan Sanborn, and eleventh-graders Merri Moise and Alec Schaefer.