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Homecoming season has officially arrived at Avonworth High School—but not without a twist. In a break from tradition, this year’s dance is scheduled for September 20th, just four weeks into the school year. That’s a full month earlier than usual, and it’s thrown the student body into a whirlwind of confusion, frustration, and—yes—some excitement.
In years past, Homecoming was a full experience: Spirit Week, pep rallies, and the crowning of Homecoming Court all built up to the big night. This year, however, the dance will come before the pep rally and football game, which are now set for two weeks later.
Most students heard about this change during an assembly at the start of the school year, Thursday, August 28th.
The result? A celebration that feels, to many, out of sync.
“Its frustrating that the game and all of the events aren’t this week…I feel like its not fair because it doesn’t feel like homecoming at all.” wrote senior Ella Piacenti, one of a number of seniors who answered a small Avonews Google Form asking about Homecoming.
“For homecoming it is frustrating that the homecoming football game isn’t the same week as the dance itself. I think this definitely changes the homecoming experience of celebrating the whole week. This could be upsetting to some, especially seniors.” wrote senior Madison Nicholas.
Spirit Week, usually a fan-favorite tradition that amps up school pride starting on Monday, is now nine days later and feels like an afterthought. Students expressed disappointment that the usual energy and anticipation leading up to the dance has been lost. Instead of a crescendo of school spirit, Homecoming feels more like a standalone event.
“…its a bit annoying its so early and doesn’t line up with spirit week or the actual homecoming game, ” wrote senior Sam Cavanaugh.
“I’m so excited…(but) I’m just a little confused – why we aren’t having the pep rally and king & queen game before hoco? I don’t think it’s smart how we are doing it after because I feel like there’s no excitement or point in that since hoco is over by then” wrote senior Sam Hustwit.
Even student leaders seemed caught off guard. Newly elected class president Harrison McAfee and vice president Santiago Angelelli, pictured below, admitted they were in the dark.
“I didn’t know anything about it until recently…They (administration) never give us information until the week before,” said Angelelli, Junior Vice President, Grade 11.
Still, not all hope is lost.
Despite the scheduling shake-up, many students are looking forward to the dance itself.
“I like how they (admin) sent out an email to the seniors asking for song requests for the DJ., wrote senior Dylan Lope, “I hope they take our requests and actually use them. If they play “Cotton Eyed Joe” I’m leaving.”
“I have good hoco thoughts. I think it is going to be fun and I am excited to dress up” wrote senior Tessa Burens.
Angelelli also reflected on a few positives. “Yes, it’s always a great event because of our community,” said Santi. “We are very privileged to get the whole downtown aspect.”
Whether it’s the early date or the scattered schedule, one thing is clear: this year’s Homecoming has sparked more conversation than ever. And while traditions may shift, Avonworth’s spirit remains strong.
Reporting and Photography from Jada Taylor, Class of 2026, and Megan Obersteiner and Beatrice Laurence, Class of 2027.
