Vernon Hills High School’s homecoming is a tradition that VHHS students have experienced since 2001. The overall
tradition and concept have not changed for the school, but the way people show up and attend is different.
“Something that is different, [is that] people come in groups”, Deborah Beagle, student activities director said.
Beagle explained that the check-in process has gotten faster, which allows students to access the dance quicker.
“Checking in through 5-Star is super fast,” Beagle said. “We used to have lines of people waiting to get in, but now, scanning an ID is pretty quick.”
An old tradition that was set in place when the school started was a parade. Each student class made a float and met at Deerpath Park. The floats then made their way through the neighborhood, back to the school.
“With most of [the staff] coming from Libertyville, and Libertyville having a tradition of having a parade, the idea was to have one here,” English teacher Chris Curry said.“It got to the point where the crowds were not there and excitement of a new school wore off a little and wasn’t getting quite the young kid crowd in the neighborhood anymore.”
While the parade was a short-lasting tradition, students now have more activities in the school planned by the student council.
“We are always trying to come up with more creative themes each year,” Emily Hammond (12), student council president, said. “Our student council takes the student body’s input and participation into account when it comes to planning dances and other events.”
According to Hammond, some of these activities also have the power to bring classes together.“The best part about homecoming from my past four years has definitely been the color competition,” Hammond said. “It’s a great opportunity for students at VHHS to have fun with their class by dressing up in a color, singing class karaoke, and competing against the other classes.”
