On Friday, May 17, 2013 Highlander Day took place in the field behind the high school. Sports, clubs, world languages and other additional classes were able to organize tables to raise money and also to provide food and entertainment for the students. This year Highlander Day was organized by Mr. Maslanek, Mr. VanWingerden and Ms. Schwartz – the current Student Council Advisors.
During Highlander Day, students were able to go outside and were also able to spend time in the gymnasium and cafeteria. In the gym there was a volleyball tournament where teams made up of students ranging from ninth to twelfth grade versed each other for the overall win.
The many booths including field hockey, French and GSA all had a variety of food for the students to snack on as they enjoyed the event. A sophomore admitted, “My favorite part was buying food.” This is no surprise considering the wide range of desserts and snacks that were available to students.
National Art Honor Society’s table gave students the chance to tie-dye a t-shirt, tank top or bandana. The table was bustling with students from the start of Highlander Day until the end. Also, the Interact Club had a small game where if you won you would have the opportunity to bring home a fish home for a small price. Needless to say many students were walking around the rest of Highlander Day with a new pet.
Highlander Day has been an ongoing success since the 2008-2009 school year. Ms. DeMicco, the original organizer of this event says, “As the Student Council Advisor at the time I was looking to do something new that the whole school would enjoy rather than something they were already used to.” This event has consistently received positive feedback from both students and staff. When asked the sole purpose of Highlander Day Ms. Demicco responded, “The idea that everyone could see what West Milford High School had to offer, everyone could share in that sense of community, to promote some school spirit, and to just have fun. We tried to engage the entire student body as much as possible…”
Unfortunately, last spring on Highlander Day it was raining and the event was held in the English wing parking lot. Although the booths offered up fun activities, both students and faculty were thankful for the cool rainless spring day on May 17, 2013.
Highlander Day, although hasn’t been a West Milford High School tradition for many years, is one that students look forward to. A high standard has been set for the event promoting school spirit.
