To kick off the 2023 to 2024 school year, Dana Hills High School held a Week of Welcome to welcome back all the students. These events include Dana Hills’ first-ever lip dub on the first Thursday of the school year and a pep rally. Senior Sofie Miller, Dana Hills’ ASU president, said, “It was a group effort in planning these events, through ASU contacting different groups, coordinating with staff, and crowd control the day of the lip dub.” She also stated, “The Week of Welcome activities, videos and discussions were planned and created by the office staff and admin.” Through this group effort, Dana Hills pulled off their first-ever Week of Welcome. Dr. Baker, Dana Hills’ principal, said, “This was the first ever DHHS lip dub and we are pleased we pulled it off and we were able to successfully make one… We learned a lot this year and will make it even better next school year!” The pep rally on the first Friday of the school year took place in the Dana Hills gym, and it gave the students of Dana Hills a chance to see the school spirit that will surround them. This was shown in many ways, one of which was a hilarious pie-eating contest that took place between Dr. Baker and Mr. Bajorek. After winning the contest Dr. Baker said, “I am really proud of my domination over Mr. Bajorek and I’m happy to represent the classes I won for! He thought he had taken me down but I showed him! He bought me lunch so he was gracious in defeat.” It’s great to see that Mr. Bajorek can handle a tough loss. But why did the school plan all of this? “This week gave students a moment to breathe and adjust to the first week of school and it made teachers step back and connect with students instead of just jumping into material,” Miller says. Another agreeing opinion was that Baker said this week “provided a valuable opportunity for students to begin the academic year on a positive note and create a strong sense of community, school pride and a sense of belonging within our school.” Baker states another overall goal Dana Hills was looking to achieve from this welcome week. “When we start school with a focus on building positive relationships and setting expectations, we will have an increase of school spirit and enjoyment of learning throughout the year.” This first-ever Week of Welcome at Dana Hills High School could be stated as a great way to start this new school year.
Author: Molly Anderson
