Homecoming season has officially arrived at MHS, and students are excited for this year’s big week. The highly anticipated homecoming dance will be held during Saturday, culminating a week full of fun activities.

The week includes:

• Spirit Week dress days Monday through Friday.
• A parade at 5:30 p.m. Thursday after school with a new route and food trucks.
• A pep rally at the end of the school day Friday.
• The big game Friday night against LaPorte with the crowning of the Homecoming Queen and naming of Mr. Football at halftime. (See separate story on Homecoming Court).
• The dance Saturday night in the Hall of Flags.

This year’s dance will feature the theme “Rio”, inspired by the animated bird movie. Student Government President Akaiyah Lindsey explained that the theme was chosen to allow students to show off their unique personalities while coming together as a community. 

“It’s based around birds, bright colors, lights and glitter. I wanted everyone to be able to show off their individual colors and styles while still celebrating together,” she said.

One of the biggest changes to the event is the food. Lindsey said she wanted to step away from the usual and still make sure students had something new and fun to look forward to.

“We’re not doing pizza again. That’s lame, and I know a lot of y’all were tired of it.” Lindsey said. “This year, we’re having sandwiches, salad bar, trays and a lot more desserts. Plus, the decorations are going to feel bigger and brighter, almost like Christmas.”

Student Government Vice President Tenea Crawford is helping with the planning process, ensuring everything runs smoothly for the big night.

“I’ve helped Ms.Kiser and the president with [organizing] the decorations,” Crawford said. “We’ve already ordered everything, made sure it all works, and scheduled the day to set it all up. We also rallied Student Government members to help when the time comes.

Crawford is excited about the response to this year’s dance.

“The decorations this year are just beautiful,” she said. “I can’t wait to see how people react when they walk through the doors.”

There are also some changes coming to this year’s parade, which begins at 5:30 p.m. Thursday.

The parade will have a new route. Starting behind the school, it will travel South on Delaware, left on E. 71st, take a right on Catherine St. , a quick right on E. 70th Ave. a left on Connecticut St. a right on E. 69th Place and return down Delaware to the school.

There will also be some added treats for students this year with three trucks visiting: Kona Ice, Twisted Sugar and the Dogg House will be in the back parking lot.  

Of course, no event is without challenges. Crawford also explains the last minute issues that had appeared.

“With planning, there’s always something that comes up,” she said. “I just try to keep a level head and fix the problem before it affects the actual event.”

Both leaders encouraged students to come in with open minds and plenty of spirit.

“Just come in with a great attitude and be ready for good food,” Crawford said.