Madeleine Gertsen
Class of 2015
The Pep Rally in past years has been an event which many students, teachers, and coaches look forward to and fully support. Ever since our Pep Rally was eliminated, students have questioned whether or not our trust was lost with the administration. I wrote a petition on behalf of my friends, the student body as a whole, teachers, parents and coaches who believe that the actions of few should not determine what opportunities are given to the majority.
I remember my freshman year when we were all in the gym watching the Pep Rally, and it was the most thrilling experience for a newcomer. The dances, especially the football team’s, were funny and entertaining. After watching these dances, I remember that I couldn’t wait for this day to come when we seniors would have our chance.
With the encouragement from my friends and both of my parents, I wrote the petition with the goal of making the administration reconsider their decision. The class of 2015 agreed that we could use the Pep Rally this year as a way to demonstrate that the tradition can be positive, fun, and appropriate. I believe that if we could approach the event in this way, it could be a success and serve all with a positive message.
I respect the rules and regulations put into place and understand why the administration felt the need to remove the Pep Rally from spirit week, but at the same time I know that now is the time to speak up before the tradition is lost forever. The Pep Rally is just one example of something that can bring our school together, and it should not be taken away as a punishment for those few individuals who failed to respect the rules. I gave my petition to principal, Dr. LeDuc on Friday, September 19, and we are hoping to hear back from the administration on Monday, September 22 after their meeting.
The relationship between the students and the school administration should be open and respectful, especially in situations that involve seniors since these events are time-sensitive. With improved communication, I think I speak for the whole class in saying that we can demonstrate to the entire school that the Pep Rally can make a positive impact, as intended, on everyone involved.
