Trojan Nite has now come and gone for the 51st time in the school’s history. This event is a massive effort that requires time and energy by the student council, their sponsor, teachers, and parents. As I reflect on all things Trojan Nite, I’m feeling compelled to share so many things that aren’t truly seen that makes Trojan Nite so special to Andover High School.
I saw….
Our student council spend countless hours both in and out of school organizing everything from work sessions, events, t-shirt sales etc.
30 staff members (over half of our teachers) volunteer their Saturday night out of the goodness of their heart because they love the students.
Students and staff begin their day at 8:00am and worked for hours setting up. The seating, floats, costumes, etc., make it appear that the work was effortless once everyone arrives at 5:30.
Many of our parents donating their homes and TIME to allow for work sessions to complete the amazing floats each year.
Our student council learning real world leadership skills every single year to pull together this massive effort together.
Students beaming with pride from the artwork they created for hundreds of students and families to see.
Two girls who gave it their all to run the marathon while everyone passed them and finished, only to have their team come out and run with them on the track for the last lap.
Students in the stands supporting and cheering for the underclassmen and doing their best to make it a great experience for them.
Two teachers searching the crowd for the most spirited students to be selected to participate out on the field.
A student council sponsor losing sleep and working overtime to keep the tradition alive.
Students getting to know each other for the first time and beginning friendships that will last throughout high school, maybe even for a lifetime.
Students that were so proud of the costumes they designed for everyone to see.
Several student council members setting up and cleaning up and NOT participating in Trojan Nite so they can provide the experience to other students.
Elementary and middle school students in the crowd that were excited to be and even more excited to start their high school experience so they can be part of Trojan Nite.
Students from every grade level gather in the center of the field holding hands prior to the team competition to show unity and pride for the event.
8 Teachers jousting each other and hopping in potato sacks because they wanted to represent the students that asked them to be their class sponsor.
63% of students attended the tradition, which is more than any other event during the year and includes every single grade level.
$7000.00 was raised from Trojan Nite so student council can continue to bring other awesome experiences to the students at AHS such as:
- Class of the Year (COTY) Zoo Trip
- Teacher Appreciation Week
- Fun Fridays
- Perfect Attendance rewards
- Homecoming Dances
- Winter Wishes & Vanity Fair
- Student/Staff VB Game
- Food Drive Prizes
I believe Trojan Nite is a mindset. Not everyone can be an athlete, but it’s so much more than just an event for athletes. It’s a chance to bond with your class. It’s a chance to be involved in different ways every single year. It’s actually a lot like High School. I believe you get out of it, what you put into it.
