It starts with an unsure “y-e-l-l, y-e-l-l, everybody yell, go freshman!” from the freshmen class. Then crescendos into a louder more assertive “We’re mean, we’re green, we’re the class of 2014!” from the sophomores. Finally, the junior class erupts into a thunderous roar from their half-filled bleachers… oh wait.
When it comes to the juniors in a class competition, it’s awkward, to say the least.
Not to stifle creativity, or hate on the country (in reference to the “U.S.A” chanting), or to oppose the general chant “this is our house” (though let’s be realistic, we all go to this school, so it’s all of our house), but lacking the tradition of a class cheer brings down our class.
It’s not even the cheer used, it’s that we become so self-conscious. There’s no need to whisper, it’s supposed to be a cheer, a yell or shout, not a whisper. There should be some enthusiasm behind it.
The class cheer lets the rest of the school know we are confident as individuals and overall. It’s more than just winning some spirit points, it shows our dedication to the school.
It’s not something that can be taught, it’s something we just have to do.
“It’s all up to the students,” junior class sponsor Diane Dunn said. “I’d like to see more students get involved and be more excited.”
The class cheer reflects our larger problem, which is the lack of enthusiasm for the school overall. However, not everyone is at fault.
“Thus far, the junior class officers have done a fantastic job, but a few juniors shouldn’t have to carry the burden,” Dunn said. “I wish more could be involved.”
So yes, I realize not everyone is at fault, but without everyone we really aren’t going to accomplish much. We all need to make an effort.
Maybe the problem lies in the fact that for two years the seniors have been running the show and the juniors felt it was unnecessary to step up with them here.
But, the seniors are only going to be here for a few more months.
Part of being a high schooler is getting to senior year where you are the role model and you’re who the underclassmen look up to. Junior class, that is us next year.
“I always thought we had less drama in our class, but I feel like our grade is really chill,” junior Caroline Hayes said. “There’s not much meshing and everyone is comfortable where we’re at.”
It’s time to put aside the differences and judgements and get out of your comfort zones. It’s time to be proud and confident.
Embrace the grade we’re a part of and get to know all these great individuals. And honestly, don’t be afraid to show some level of enthusiasm for our school. None of us are too cool or sophisticated to cheer at a school assembly. Get over yourselves.
There are a number of ways the class can improve during assemblies.
“If we teach everyone our cheer, that would help,” Hayes said. “We could maybe rope off the top section and try harder during spirit week. It doesn’t take much to contribute.”
Hayes wishes spirit is the one thing the junior class could come together on. It would be a stepping stone toward becoming united and more confident as a class.
So, juniors regardless of how you feel it’s time to make your voices audible – both at assemblies and in participation at this school. I know all of you have the ability to shout.
