why is school spirit important essay

Student Government Association Blog

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The Importance of School Pride

November 4, 2010 by Kinsley Stocum

A Letter from Adrianne Burns, Director of University Advancement

At Missouri State, students can improve their college experience and create endless memories that they can carry with them long after graduation. This can be done through school spirit!

This simple yet effective concept is often overlooked at Missouri State but can become the difference between just being at a school and being at our school. Through school spirit, students can be a part of something exciting and unique.  As Missouri State Bears, we should work to promote our university and ensure its betterment for future students.

School spirit is important because it sets the tone for various aspects of the school and its students. When the student body is involved in events on and off campus, it demonstrates a passion for Bear Pride that is immeasurable and contagious.  I believe that school spirit translates into higher expectations of one’s self and surroundings, pushing for positive changes at the university and abroad.

There are several ways you can show your Bear Pride at Missouri State: wear your Bear Wear or Maroon every Friday, attend a sporting event, tailgate for events, support campus wide competitions, and involve yourself in events such as Homecoming. Engaging in these simple actions is great for our school because it encourages a common bond between fellow students, faculty, and staff alike.

The Student Government Association is also working hard to promote Bear Pride through numerous projects and initiatives. Such projects include improving student seating at the Plaster football stadium, bringing replica athletic jerseys to the University Bookstore, and promoting Boomer and Growl in the Springfield field area and beyond. We’re also working to promote Missouri State to potential students by creating a Top Ten Reasons list of why students attend Missouri State, coordinating new recruitment efforts among academic departments, and establishing traditions at Missouri State that students can look forward to taking part in.

In addition, The Missouri State Alumni Association also welcomes student support and participation in their efforts to continue the school spirit momentum beyond graduation. By sharing student stories of school pride and of current successes in sports, clubs, organizations, and in the classroom, we may foster the nostalgia felt by alumni for their beloved alma mater. To be an Alumni of Missouri State is a special experience because you have the unique opportunity to give back to our university through contributions to our Foundation as well as serving as an example of how Missouri State has been vital to your success.

I encourage students to show their love for Missouri State every single day, because it truly is wonderful to be a Bear.

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Igniting Unity: How School Spirit Enhances the College Experience

School spirit is a powerful and intangible force that unites students, faculty, and alumni in a shared sense of pride and enthusiasm for their institution. It's more than just wearing school colors or attending sports events – it's a dynamic expression of identity, community, and belonging. The impact of school spirit extends far beyond the surface, enriching the college experience in profound ways. In this article, we delve into how school spirit can enhance the college experience, foster a vibrant campus culture, and create lasting memories.

Fostering a Sense of Belonging

School spirit nurtures a sense of belonging and camaraderie among students. When students proudly wear their school's colors, chant cheers at games, or engage in campus events, they become part of a larger community that shares common goals and values. This sense of belonging contributes to a supportive environment where students feel connected to their peers and invested in their academic journey.

Creating Positive Campus Culture

A robust school spirit contributes to a positive and vibrant campus culture. It infuses energy, excitement, and a sense of celebration into campus life. The enthusiasm generated by school spirit events, rallies, and competitions creates an atmosphere that is not only enjoyable but also conducive to learning and personal growth.

Boosting Student Engagement

Engaged students are more likely to thrive academically and socially. School spirit events and activities provide opportunities for students to connect with their peers, faculty, and staff outside the classroom. From homecoming festivities to volunteer initiatives, these experiences encourage active participation and engagement, enhancing the overall college experience.

Supporting Athletic and Artistic Achievements

School spirit plays a significant role in supporting and celebrating the achievements of college athletes and artists. Students rallying behind their sports teams or attending performances provide a motivating and enthusiastic audience that can uplift athletes and performers to new heights. This encouragement fosters a strong sense of pride and accomplishment among those representing the institution.

Building Lifelong Connections

School spirit fosters a sense of community that extends beyond the college years. Alumni who have experienced a vibrant campus culture and strong school spirit are more likely to maintain a lifelong connection with their alma mater. This connection can lead to valuable networking opportunities, mentorship relationships, and a continued commitment to the institution's success.

Promoting Emotional Well-Being

Engaging in school spirit activities and events can positively impact students' emotional well-being. Participating in spirited activities, attending games, and celebrating campus traditions can serve as a form of stress relief and emotional rejuvenation. These moments of collective joy and celebration contribute to a more balanced and fulfilling college experience.

Instilling Pride and Identity

School spirit nurtures a sense of pride in one's academic journey and accomplishments. It encourages students to take ownership of their educational experience and proudly represent their institution. This sense of identity can boost self-confidence and motivate students to excel in their studies and extracurricular pursuits.

Creating Lasting Memories

The memories created through school spirit activities often become cherished moments that students carry with them long after graduation. From painting banners for games to participating in homecoming parades, these experiences create a tapestry of memories that connect individuals to their college and its unique traditions.

School spirit is a vibrant thread that weaves together the fabric of the college experience. Its impact is far-reaching, enhancing campus culture, fostering a sense of belonging, and creating lasting memories for students, faculty, and alumni. As institutions continue to cultivate and celebrate school spirit, they not only enrich the college journey but also lay the foundation for a lifelong connection that extends beyond the years spent on campus. Whether through spirited chants at games or joyful participation in campus events, school spirit is a powerful catalyst that enhances every facet of the college experience.

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What Is School Spirit?

Homecoming Traditions

School spirit is in many ways the heart of a school. Pride is a school spirit synonym because it helps foster a sense of belonging among students and staff who are part of the school. It is often a direct reflection of a school’s culture, which can serve as a powerful influence on overall academic performance. A strong sense of school spirit makes staff and students feel more invested in their school, which makes them happier and motivates them to work harder and help each other out. Schools at every level can improve their culture and performance by actively promoting school spirit on their campus.

School spirit is generally defined as a sense of pride, identity and community shared by members of an educational organization.

When it’s at its strongest, school spirit inspires active participation in school activities and events. While most people associate school spirit with high attendance for pep rallies and athletic events, it also involves joining school clubs and participating in all kinds of extracurricular activities. Uniforms and club shirts serve as a form of spirit wear, meaning that following a dress code helps promote a sense of belonging to the school family. Positive relationships between staff and students foster a strong sense of school spirit. Many schools host annual spirit weeks where everyone is encouraged to dress up according to a predetermined theme.

Significance of School Pride

When people take pride in something, they tend to work harder and feel more invested than they would without that sense of pride. For better or worse, school spirit is contagious. Students and staff who show enthusiasm for being a part of the school are likely to encourage their peers to follow suit, which yields greater participation in school activities and boosts both morale and performance. Since the opposite also holds true, though, students and staff who exhibit disdain or apathy toward their role in the school can have detrimental effects on morale and performance. Schools with a stronger sense of pride and spirit typically outperform their competition in both athletic and academic arenas.

What Does School Spirit Look Like?

School spirit looks like teamwork. It involves events and activities that bring members of the school community together in some way. In addition to its positive impact on morale and performance, school spirit is generally fun. It celebrates successes and creates a sense of togetherness. From colorful posters reflecting schoolwide goals to award ceremonies, special events and team-building activities, school spirit looks like a community of learners and educators working together for the greater good.

School Spirit at the Elementary Level

For students at the primary level, fun is the name of the school spirit game. One simple way to have fun while showing school spirit is to schedule dress-up days based on a common theme. Students can come to school in their most comfortable pajamas for pajama day, or they can dress up like their favorite storybook character. Pep rallies are another way for elementary schools to dial up the fun and the sense of pride. During the pep rally, schools can play lively music and even make their own songs to sing about their community. Games make another great component to pep rallies. Students can be randomly selected to represent each grade level and then compete in a variety of games while the school cheers them on. Movie nights to promote family involvement can also be useful school spirit events.

School Spirit at the Secondary Level

Just like their elementary counterparts, secondary schools can also benefit from hosting themed dress-up days and lively pep rallies or spirit assemblies. Schools can line the hallways with exceptional examples of student work and creativity. Field days and teacher vs. student athletic competitions are fun ways to fuel school spirit and team building. A school talent show can increase school spirit by giving community members a chance to shine while doing what they do best. Secondary schools can also host themed dances where students can let loose and show off their best dance moves.

School Spirit at the Postsecondary Level

School spirit is just as important in higher education as it is in the lower levels. From museum nights to theater performances and sports competitions, colleges and universities have no shortage of ways to boost their school spirit. Making and selling spirit wear that reflects the school’s sports teams is also a useful way to promote a sense of pride at the postsecondary level.

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Kristina Barroso earned a B.A. in Psychology from Florida International University and works full-time as a classroom teacher in a public school. She teaches middle school English to a wide range of students from struggling readers to advanced and gifted populations. In her spare time, she loves writing articles about education for TheClassroom.com, WorkingMother and other education sites.

Importance of School Spirit becomes increasingly important

Understanding the importance of school spirit, first of all what is school spirit.

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Survey Shows Students With School Spirit Are Top Achievers

In addition to showing support for their school, high school students with “school spirit” perform better academically, are more engaged in social and civic matters, and are happier in general than their less-spirited peers.

These findings were part of an online survey of high school students, parents and principals commissioned by Varsity Brands earlier this year. The survey conducted by Harris Poll involved about 1,500 individuals who were asked about school pride, academics, self-esteem and community involvement. The research attempted to discover how school spirit is connected to the way high school students learn, lead and grow.

“School spirit” involves a student’s pride in his or her school, a student’s propensity to get other students to be active in school events, and a student’s plans to return to his or her school for special events after graduation.

From academic achievement to general happiness, the survey indicated a positive relationship to school spirit. Principals overwhelmingly believe it is important that they personally build school spirit at their school (89%) and that higher levels of school spirit is tied to higher student achievement.

Among the ways that principals indicated that they build school spirit were awarding students for academic performance; engaging faculty, administrators and staff; promoting clubs and organizations; holding social events; promoting graduation events and caps and gowns; graduation announcements; and yearbook events.

“When students feel a sense of efficacy, they tend to be more involved, more in tune with the great opportunities which exist on their campus,” noted one female principal who responded to the survey. “If they are not doing well in school, they are not involved in athletics or many of the activities. Additionally, they do not take personal responsibility for not doing well and tend to blame the school, or other factors. They will state ‘they don’t care.’

“Students who are achieving strongly tend to be involved in all aspects of high school. They join clubs, they start clubs, they participate in different events, activities and athletics on site. They get ‘The High School Experience.’”

A student who completed the survey stated that “school spirit means to support your school no matter what and to take pride in your achievements knowing your school has helped you to reach your goals.”

The survey indicated that during the 2013-14 school year, high school students were involved in an average of eight extracurricular activities; and among those individuals involved in activity programs, 51 percent said the reason they were involved is so that they can be involved in their school, and 34 percent said getting involved is a way to show their school spirit.

The concluding statement of the survey noted that “school spirit is a powerful reflection of pride, achievement and determination. It goes hand in hand with positivity and is a benchmark of a school’s holistic success.”

As one principal summarized, school spirit equates to a “sense of community with students, parents, teachers and administrators working together with a common purpose and with activities for all segments of the school population.”

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Taking School Spirit to the Next Level!

Teach Better Team July 21, 2023 Blog , Connect Better , Engage Better

• Building school spirit is essential for fostering positive school culture and values.
• High academic achievements are linked to students’ pride in their school and engagement in school activities.
• Creating strong relationships and empowering student leadership can lead to a positive school climate and impactful events.
• Consider inclusive and affordable strategies for student-centered tasks and events.

This blog was written in collaboration with Frank Rudnesky who is a podcaster and a middle school principal in the United States.

School spirit is key to building a core set of values in schools. We are writing today from our experience as a teacher and a middle school principal. We want to inspire you and gain insights into what you do to engage school spirit and values and aspire leadership in middle schools. It’s important to consider our perspectives and see if they work at your school so that you can see the positive impact that school spirit initiatives can bring to your school. The first political role I ran for was my high school council’s spirit coordinator because I firmly believe in the research-backed approach of creating a diverse and accepting culture, which fosters connections among all members of the school community.

Setting High Academic Achievements 

Students who are interested in school contribute to the school culture. The research points to higher academic achievements when they are proud of their school.  “Having seen firsthand the coordination between student achievement and higher levels of school spirit, I’m glad that there is now a set of research that reinforces this key relationship,” said Bob Gardner, Executive Director of the National Federation of State High Schools (NFHS). 

This thought frame resonated with me as a middle school educator since each student is unique in their interests and in what they bring to school. Ensuring we reach the most high-risk students and the students who are not as interested in school is of key importance in the middle school age group since it is an influential age in child development. The importance of providing choices to students, allowing them to explore their interests, and making real-life connections creates a balance between school and real-life success. By integrating these two aspects, academic performance can improve significantly. During my brief experience teaching middle school grades 6, 7, and 8 in Ontario, I learned that achieving high math scores in EQAO (Ontario Math and Language testing) requires understanding and programming according to students’ individual needs, setting high standards as examples.

When teaching middle school some things I have tried:

• School Council Teams to build student voice through discussions.
• School Sports Teams with the audience as active participants to build spirit.
• School-wide contests and community-building tasks with points given to school teams.

Building Relationships

When your students and colleagues know you care, amazing shifts in climate and culture can occur and/or get better. I knew this as a teacher and professor but really witnessed the transformation as a middle school principal. Probably, because I came in contact with more stakeholders and one of my goals was to interact with the students. I addressed them by their names and interacted in various capacities. So, that’s what I did. In other words, I was committed to relationship building.  

Each year before the start of school, we had Eighth Grade Leadership Camp. Part of the day was devoted to declaring a theme for the year and a service platform. For instance, one year our theme was “Project Superhero” and our service platform was the Atlantic City Rescue Mission. We mapped out and planned events for the year focused on our theme. The students even planned the opening day kickoff as we welcomed new students with signs, music, and a “Happy New Year” assembly.

When you allow the students to drive a positive climate and culture by empowering leadership, amazing outcomes are possible.

Relationships are built and connections create opportunities for everyone. During the school year, students plan and facilitate events. When your students and colleagues see everyone chipping in, it becomes part of your positive environment.

One of the best stories that comes to mind is when the students taught me to skateboard. That’s right! I was over fifty years old when I wielded my first longboard!  The students challenged me during a service project. They said if I skateboarded with them, they would collect one thousand pairs of new socks for the homeless at the rescue mission.

They built me a board and I learned to ride it. We collected over two thousand pairs of socks! Ironically, I still ride my longboard to this day! You can imagine how events like this created lasting relationships. I’ve been seen riding down the boardwalk at the New Jersey shore in a suit on many occasions: priceless!

I came to the realization that your leadership ability increases exponentially by the number of leaders you create around you. When we began to include ten-year-olds in our leadership thought process, it was common sense! I taught every student a lesson in leadership during the year. In addition, we had leadership camps and summits. We trained our students to facilitate leadership activities with each other and other schools. That became an unbelievable sense of accomplishment to see all of our adults and students move towards common goals.

Frequently, students contact me and their former teachers to let us know that the leadership training they had in middle school translated to their academic careers as well as their job careers. Inclusion created a new leadership model for our school and especially our students—to have a voice. Leadership becomes timeless. Events and traditions are born that transcend time. 

When you create a positive school climate and culture, your performance increases significantly.

People feel like they belong because they have discovered self-dignity that allows other students and colleagues to accept their dignity as a birthright. Respect and positive character become reciprocal and leadership becomes commonplace.

The biggest form of identity theft is telling someone they can’t accomplish something and reducing them to a test score . Conversely, when students and teachers see themselves differently, they see who they can become. They see their full potential. That is a WOW Factor! 

There is not one book or super course in leadership that will give you the tools to create or recreate yourself as a leader. Many valuable resources exist but you must reveal what is inside you and act accordingly in a purposeful direction. If you choose to challenge your leadership with love, character, and passion, amazing accomplishments will accompany you and the people around you at every level of your journey. Even on social media, you will find your circle and your circle will find you in a proactive, positive way.

The positive climate and culture that leadership opportunities create will translate to school spirit-oriented ideas.

School Spirit Task-Oriented Ideas With a Middle School Focus

Place emphasis on the school team-building opportunities that engage creativity in students and connect curriculum-driven content to schools.

When I taught middle school I liked bringing in creative ideas from students and building them into the school spirit task to ensure the task was productive and engaging while teaching students something new. For example, the ever-famous middle school task: The Halloween Door Decorating Contest for School Spirit.

We always decorated the door inside the classroom (since for Health and Safety this door can only be up for the judging day). Then we use the decoration for our display board for the week. The door theme that we voted on in the class makes for the most perfect display board that highlights our work in our classroom. I taught a lesson on QR codes and tied in technology to the contest so that students could add QR codes with their favorite Halloween spooky sound or music. Integrating arts with technology to build a layered curriculum as we entered our homeroom ideas into the curriculum is something that engages learning while competing in our school teams.

This is an example from when I taught grade two, where we collaborated with middle school students for a similar task involving our Reading Buddy classmates. The project took longer as each pair consisted of one middle school student and one primary student who aspired to connect their ideas using QR codes. In the end, they created a video message for the door, expressing how much they enjoyed reading together.

Building the Gap on Equitable Access

When teaching middle school is where I saw the gap in financial status the most in Ontario. Students either come to school with those $200 Nike or the $20 shoes. We as teachers, volunteers, and students all know where the gap was. When we can address the issue head-on, we eliminate the potential to have an obstacle.

I want to be transparent and candid, as I usually am when I blog and speak to establish connections. Let’s discuss Middle School Graduation, which revolves heavily around financial aspects as we celebrate the students’ accomplishments and hard work. Whether you are a public school teacher or in a private setting, it can be challenging to witness the process being followed without questioning its implications for students.

Be proactive when you are planning student-centered traditional school tasks:

• Field trips
• Sports events
• School Spirit events

Three Considerations 

To ensure affordability and equity in middle school events, it’s essential to maintain a student-centered focus during the planning process.

For instance, let’s consider the widely popular “The Middle School Prom,” which can now become financially burdensome for many families. How can we implement systematic changes that prioritize the inclusion and well-being of every student?

Ask yourself who can afford it and who can’t!

Consider things such as the cost of the dress or tux, dinner, dance, and possibly a graduation field trip.

Diving a little bit deeper into reflection: In the middle school I taught at, the dress would be $200. The cost of a ticket would be $75, and the grade trip to Montreal or Ottawa via bus with classmates would be $600.

When I was teaching grade 8, right at the start of the planning for this trip, I knew half my class would be not attending because they can’t afford what is traditionally and historically done in middle schools in Ontario. I may not be the most popular teacher when I question traditional practice, but I was the most popular teacher among students because I always thought of them first.

To critically examine this practice, we must ask ourselves: Are we organizing this event with the students’ enjoyment in mind, or are we merely adhering to standard procedures? It’s crucial to consider the financial implications for every family and to be compassionate and accommodating in celebrating each student’s middle school achievement. Through this reflective journey in blogging, I hope you, as a reader, will understand the significance of empathizing with families and prioritizing inclusion before sending event invitations to those who may face financial constraints.

Find Solutions Ahead

• How can we get corporate funding to substitute the cost?
• Can we give a different cost to students who can’t afford it?
• Build connections while understanding the community you teach.
• Which community partners can you reach out to for help?

Considering the financial gap and leveling the playing field in how we work with families is of key importance when we encourage conversions on finances and affordability.

Get Feedback 

• Honest feedback from students will be a good starting point.
• Feedback builds the next successful event. 
• Document the knowledge for statistical purposes for the school.

Recently, I had the privilege of presenting to a group of Chinese Canadian students. During my presentation, I was delighted to receive immediate feedback, which encouraged active participation, student voice, and choice. I highly value community development and believe in creating reflective spaces that foster courageous conversations, allowing us to connect through networking. As educators, we excel at nurturing leaders within our communities. I encourage you to join me in working on these aspects at the Rising Dragons Training sessions.

Here is the QR Code for you to check out the Instagram reel for the session!

A special thank you to Frank Rudnesky who connected with me on social media to collaborate on this blog!

Blog Reflection Questions

• How are you going to change your educational practices to make them more inclusive?
• If you were to plan a graduation or a prom, what would you do differently?
• Think about one thing you would share with another teacher so that you inspire them to do things a bit differently with an equity point of view.

Research conducted by Varsity Brands highlights the correlation between school spirit and student achievement, involvement, and confidence.

About Nilmini Ratwatte-Henstridge

Nilmini lives in Ontario, Canada. She was born in Sri Lanka is immigrated Canada. Educator at heart, she is passionate about equity, inclusion, social justice and human rights in education.

She believes in understanding people as she travels to explore cultures in our world during her spare time, loves cooking at home and trying out new flavours, and continues to follow the latest fashion news!

Nilmini loves staying connected with global educators via social media: author, blogger, podcaster and most importantly, just exploring life.

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School spirit and why it should be present on every campus, the sea of school colors brings a campus unity like not much else can..

My first taste of college spirit came from visiting my sister at Boston College when I was little. I sat with her in the student section in a sea of gold and maroon, learning their fight songs and taking pictures with their mascot. As the smallest person in the crowd, when the Eagles scored a touchdown bringing their score up to 42, I was thrown in the air by five collegiate men 42 times. The student section was a huge presence in the stadium. My exposure to college fans continued after visiting my brother at Penn State and attending a football game. People dressed in blue and white were around every corner and the "We Are" chants permeated through every section.

While this open show of school spirit is certainly felt at many universities, there are some that are not quite so gung-ho. Coming from a small university, I have experienced firsthand how hard it can be to entice students to participate in rallies and tailgates and game days without the presence of a large state school student body to reinforce why we would deck out in spirit colors and chant ridiculous fight songs.

This one lacking piece of the campus puzzle affects more than just attendance at sporting events. In essence, a strong school spirit creates an overall unity among the students at the university. No matter what clubs or organizations students are involved in, school spirit is one aspect that everyone can band together and agree on. There is no singling out when the entire school is wearing the same colors and cheering on the same group of individuals.

Just last year, my university celebrated its 150th Lehigh versus Lafayette rivalry football game at Yankee Stadium in New York. The entire stadium was packed with fans from both sides decked out in brown, white and maroon; I don't think I've ever experienced such an outward showing of pride in my university until that day. While walking through NYC before the game, I met complete strangers also head-to-toe in brown and white who gave me a friendly wave from across the street or a "Go Lehigh!" shout while walking past. On the subway on the way to the game, the car was packed full with fans and a very loud "L-E-H-I-G-H Go Lehigh!" chant was kept up until we reached the stadium. In these moments, I felt like I was a part of something much bigger than just a football game. School spirit brought together current students, alumni, families and friends from all different parts of the country.

School spirit truly does create the holistic college experience. It improves relationships with students and administration, as well as alumni and the current campus. It is a representation of the pride the students have for their university and the first thing opponents and prospective students may see. School spirit is the ultimate pillar of school tradition — it may start on the field or court, but eventually permeates all campus aspects and is passed down through generations. Every college campus deserves to feel the sense of unity and belongingness that result from a strong, proud student presence. School spirit isn't just fans at a football game; it is ultimately the lifeline of the student body and the greatest way to show united pride in a university. School spirit is the essence of makes a university.

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25 beatles lyrics: your go-to guide for every situation, the best lines from the fab four.

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make

The End- Abbey Road, 1969

The sun is up, the sky is blue, it's beautiful and so are you

Dear Prudence- The White Album, 1968

Love is old, love is new, love is all, love is you

Because- Abbey Road, 1969

There's nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be

All You Need Is Love, 1967

Life is very short, and there's no time for fussing and fighting, my friend

We Can Work It Out- Rubber Soul, 1965

He say, "I know you, you know me", One thing I can tell you is you got to be free

Come Together- Abbey Road, 1969

Oh please, say to me, You'll let me be your man. And please say to me, You'll let me hold your hand

I Wanna Hold Your Hand- Meet The Beatles!, 1964

It was twenty years ago today, Sgt. Pepper taught the band to play. They've been going in and out of style, but they're guaranteed to raise a smile

Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band-1967

Living is easy with eyes closed, misunderstanding all you see

Strawberry Fields Forever- Magical Mystery Tour, 1967

Can you hear me? When it rains and shine, it's just a state of mind

Rain- Paperback Writer "B" side, 1966

Little darling, it's been long cold lonely winter. Little darling, it feels like years since it' s been here. Here comes the sun, Here comes the sun, and I say it's alright

Here Comes The Sun- Abbey Road, 1969

We danced through the night and we held each other tight, and before too long I fell in love with her. Now, I'll never dance with another when I saw her standing there

Saw Her Standing There- Please Please Me, 1963

I love you, I love you, I love you, that's all I want to say

Michelle- Rubber Soul, 1965

You say you want a revolution. Well you know, we all want to change the world

Revolution- The Beatles, 1968

All the lonely people, where do they all come from. All the lonely people, where do they all belong

Eleanor Rigby- Revolver, 1966

Oh, I get by with a little help from my friends

With A Little Help From My Friends- Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, 1967

Hey Jude, don't make it bad. Take a sad song and make it better

Hey Jude, 1968

Yesterday, all my troubles seemed so far away. Now it looks as though they're here to stay. Oh, I believe in yesterday

Yesterday- Help!, 1965

And when the brokenhearted people, living in the world agree, there will be an answer, let it be.

Let It Be- Let It Be, 1970

And anytime you feel the pain, Hey Jude, refrain. Don't carry the world upon your shoulders

I'll give you all i got to give if you say you'll love me too. i may not have a lot to give but what i got i'll give to you. i don't care too much for money. money can't buy me love.

Can't Buy Me Love- A Hard Day's Night, 1964

All you need is love, love is all you need

All You Need Is Love- Magical Mystery Tour, 1967

Whisper words of wisdom, let it be

Blackbird singing in the dead of night, take these broken wings and learn to fly. all your life, you were only waiting for this moment to arise.

Blackbird- The White Album, 1968

Though I know I'll never lose affection, for people and things that went before. I know I'll often stop and think about them. In my life, I love you more

In My Life- Rubber Soul, 1965

While these are my 25 favorites, there are quite literally 1000s that could have been included. The Beatles' body of work is massive and there is something for everyone. If you have been living under a rock and haven't discovered the Fab Four, you have to get musically educated. Stream them on Spotify, find them on iTunes or even buy a CD or record (Yes, those still exist!). I would suggest starting with 1, which is a collection of most of their #1 songs, or the 1968 White Album. Give them chance and you'll never look back.

14 Invisible Activities: Unleash Your Inner Ghost!

Obviously the best superpower..

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

1. "Haunt" your friends.

Follow them into their house and cause a ruckus.

2. Sneak into movie theaters.

Going to the cinema alone is good for your mental health , says science

Considering that the monthly cost of subscribing to a media-streaming service like Netflix is oft...

Free movies...what else to I have to say?

3. Sneak into the pantry and grab a snack without judgment.

Late night snacks all you want? Duh.

4. Reenact "Hollow Man" and play Kevin Bacon.

America's favorite son? And feel what it's like to be in a MTV Movie Award nominated film? Sign me up.

5. Wear a mask and pretend to be a floating head.

Just another way to spook your friends in case you wanted to.

6. Hold objects so they'll "float."

"Oh no! A floating jar of peanut butter."

7. Win every game of hide-and-seek.

Just stand out in the open and you'll win.

8. Eat some food as people will watch it disappear.

Even everyday activities can be funny.

9. Go around pantsing your friends.

Even pranks can be done; not everything can be good.

10. Not have perfect attendance.

You'll say here, but they won't see you...

11. Avoid anyone you don't want to see.

Whether it's an ex or someone you hate, just use your invisibility to slip out of the situation.

12. Avoid responsibilities.

Chores? Invisible. People asking about social life? Invisible. Family being rude? Boom, invisible.

13. Be an expert on ding-dong-ditch.

Never get caught and have the adrenaline rush? I'm down.

14. Brag about being invisible.

Be the envy of the town.

But don't, I repeat, don't go in a locker room. Don't be a pervert with your power. No one likes a Peeping Tom.

Good luck, folks.

19 Lessons I'll Never Forget from Growing Up In a Small Town

There have been many lessons learned..

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

1. The importance of traditions.

Sometimes traditions seem like a silly thing, but the fact of it is that it's part of who you are. You grew up this way and, more than likely, so did your parents. It is something that is part of your family history and that is more important than anything.

2. How to be thankful for family and friends.

No matter how many times they get on your nerves or make you mad, they are the ones who will always be there and you should never take that for granted.

3. How to give back.

When tragedy strikes in a small town, everyone feels obligated to help out because, whether directly or indirectly, it affects you too. It is easy in a bigger city to be able to disconnect from certain problems. But in a small town those problems affect everyone.

4. What the word "community" really means.

Along the same lines as #3, everyone is always ready and willing to lend a helping hand when you need one in a small town and to me that is the true meaning of community. It's working together to build a better atmosphere, being there to raise each other up, build each other up, and pick each other up when someone is in need. A small town community is full of endless support whether it be after a tragedy or at a hometown sports game. Everyone shows up to show their support.

5. That it isn't about the destination, but the journey.

People say this to others all the time, but it takes on a whole new meaning in a small town. It is true that life is about the journey, but when you're from a small town, you know it's about the journey because the journey probably takes longer than you spend at the destination. Everything is so far away that it is totally normal to spend a couple hours in the car on your way to some form of entertainment. And most of the time, you're gonna have as many, if not more, memories and laughs on the journey than at the destination.

6. The consequences of making bad choices.

Word travels fast in a small town, so don't think you're gonna get away with anything. In fact, your parents probably know what you did before you even have a chance to get home and tell them. And forget about being scared of what your teacher, principle, or other authority figure is going to do, you're more afraid of what your parents are gonna do when you get home.

7. To trust people, until you have a reason not to.

Everyone deserves a chance. Most people don't have ill-intentions and you can't live your life guarding against every one else just because a few people in your life have betrayed your trust.

8. To be welcoming and accepting of everyone.

While small towns are not always extremely diverse, they do contain people with a lot of different stories, struggle, and backgrounds. In a small town, it is pretty hard to exclude anyone because of who they are or what they come from because there aren't many people to choose from. A small town teaches you that just because someone isn't the same as you, doesn't mean you can't be great friends.

9. How to be my own, individual person.

In a small town, you learn that it's okay to be who you are and do your own thing. You learn that confidence isn't how beautiful you are or how much money you have, it's who you are on the inside.

10. How to work for what I want.

Nothing comes easy in life. They always say "gardens don't grow overnight" and if you're from a small town you know this both figuratively and literally. You certainly know gardens don't grow overnight because you've worked in a garden or two. But you also know that to get to the place you want to be in life it takes work and effort. It doesn't just happen because you want it to.

11. How to be great at giving directions.

If you're from a small town, you know that you will probably only meet a handful of people in your life who ACTUALLY know where your town is. And forget about the people who accidentally enter into your town because of google maps. You've gotten really good at giving them directions right back to the interstate.

12. How to be humble .

My small town has definitely taught me how to be humble. It isn't always about you, and anyone who grows up in a small town knows that. Everyone gets their moment in the spotlight, and since there's so few of us, we're probably best friends with everyone so we are as excited when they get their moment of fame as we are when we get ours.

13. To be well-rounded.

Going to a small town high school definitely made me well-rounded. There isn't enough kids in the school to fill up all the clubs and sports teams individually so be ready to be a part of them all.

14. How to be great at conflict resolution.

In a small town, good luck holding a grudge. In a bigger city you can just avoid a person you don't like or who you've had problems with. But not in a small town. You better resolve the issue fast because you're bound to see them at least 5 times a week.

15. The beauty of getting outside and exploring.

One of my favorite things about growing up in a rural area was being able to go outside and go exploring and not have to worry about being in danger. There is nothing more exciting then finding a new place somewhere in town or in the woods and just spending time there enjoying the natural beauty around you.

16. To be prepared for anything.

You never know what may happen. If you get a flat tire, you better know how to change it yourself because you never know if you will be able to get ahold of someone else to come fix it. Mechanics might be too busy , or more than likely you won't even have enough cell service to call one.

17. That you don't always have to do it alone.

It's okay to ask for help. One thing I realized when I moved away from my town for college, was how much my town has taught me that I could ask for help is I needed it. I got into a couple situations outside of my town where I couldn't find anyone to help me and found myself thinking, if I was in my town there would be tons of people ready to help me. And even though I couldn't find anyone to help, you better believe I wasn't afraid to ask.

18. How to be creative.

When you're at least an hour away from normal forms of entertainment such as movie theaters and malls, you learn to get real creative in entertaining yourself. Whether it be a night looking at the stars in the bed of a pickup truck or having a movie marathon in a blanket fort at home, you know how to make your own good time.

19. To brush off gossip.

It's all about knowing the person you are and not letting others influence your opinion of yourself. In small towns, there is plenty of gossip. But as long as you know who you really are, it will always blow over.

Grateful Beyond Words: A Letter to My Inspiration

I have never been so thankful to know you..

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

You have taught me that you don't always have to strong. You are allowed to break down as long as you pick yourself back up and keep moving forward. When life had you at your worst moments, you allowed your friends to be there for you and to help you. You let them in and they helped pick you up. Even in your darkest hour you showed so much strength. I know that you don't believe in yourself as much as you should but you are unbelievably strong and capable of anything you set your mind to.

Your passion to make a difference in the world is unbelievable. You put your heart and soul into your endeavors and surpass any personal goal you could have set. Watching you do what you love and watching you make a difference in the lives of others is an incredible experience. The way your face lights up when you finally realize what you have accomplished is breathtaking and I hope that one day I can have just as much passion you have.

SEE MORE: A Letter To My Best Friend On Her Birthday

The love you have for your family is outstanding. Watching you interact with loved ones just makes me smile . You are so comfortable and you are yourself. I see the way you smile when you are around family and I wish I could see you smile like this everyday. You love with all your heart and this quality is something I wished I possessed.

You inspire me to be the best version of myself. I look up to you. I feel that more people should strive to have the strength and passion that you exemplify in everyday life.You may be stubborn at points but when you really need help you let others in, which shows strength in itself. I have never been more proud to know someone and to call someone my role model. You have taught me so many things and I want to thank you. Thank you for inspiring me in life. Thank you for making me want to be a better person.

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life..

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Don't freak out

This is a rule you should continue to follow no matter what you do in life, but is especially helpful in this situation.

Email the professor

Around this time, professors are getting flooded with requests from students wanting to get into full classes. This doesn't mean you shouldn't burden them with your email; it means they are expecting interested students to email them. Send a short, concise message telling them that you are interested in the class and ask if there would be any chance for you to get in.

Attend the first class

Often, the advice professors will give you when they reply to your email is to attend the first class. The first class isn't the most important class in terms of what will be taught. However, attending the first class means you are serious about taking the course and aren't going to give up on it.

Keep attending class

Every student is in the same position as you are. They registered for more classes than they want to take and are "shopping." For the first couple of weeks, you can drop or add classes as you please, which means that classes that were once full will have spaces. If you keep attending class and keep up with assignments, odds are that you will have priority. Professors give preference to people who need the class for a major and then from higher to lower class year (senior to freshman).

Have a backup plan

For two weeks, or until I find out whether I get into my waitlisted class, I will be attending more than the usual number of classes. This is so that if I don't get into my waitlisted class, I won't have a credit shortage and I won't have to fall back in my backup class. Chances are that enough people will drop the class, especially if it is very difficult like computer science, and you will have a chance. In popular classes like art and psychology, odds are you probably won't get in, so prepare for that.

Remember that everything works out at the end

Life is full of surprises. So what if you didn't get into the class you wanted? Your life obviously has something else in store for you. It's your job to make sure you make the best out of what you have.

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School spirit: positive benefits for students.

To better understand the real and perceived connections between school spirit and student achievement, Varsity Brands commissioned Harris Poll to conduct an online survey of 1,016 high school students, 315 parents of high school students and 150 high school principals across the United States. Interviews were conducted in the Spring of 2014. These groups were asked about school pride, academics, self-esteem, community involvement and more. This white paper shares some of the insights our research elicited and, in particular, looks at how school spirit is connected to the way high school students learn, lead and grow.

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A Principal’s Perspective: The Importance of School Culture

Building a strong school culture helps breed student success.

As a school leader, your top commitment is to improve student learning. So refining instructional practice among your staff should be at the top of your priority list. But before you go sifting through data and refining your school’s standards, you should keep in mind that creating a positive school culture can have a remarkable impact on the success of your school.

The ASCD book How to Create a Culture of Achievement in Your School and Classroom shows how positive school culture encourages greater effort and productivity, improves collegial collaboration, supports successful change and improvement efforts, builds commitment and identification of students and teachers with your school, and amplifies energy and motivation of staff members and students.

And, really, what leader wouldn’t want a more energized and motivated staff?

While there is no exhaustive list of the most effective strategies for creating this sense of community at your school, I have tried many over the years. The following techniques and examples represent my top five. 

1. Plan a Bridge Program for New Students and Staff

We were all newbies at one point. Plan immersive experiences that help newbies fit into the culture of the school. At University Park Campus School in Worcester, Massachusetts, students begin learning the culture curriculum before the first day of school. Every new middle school student is required to attend a three-week academy to meet his or her teachers and peers and engage in a learning experience. Similarly, at High Tech Middle School in San Diego, students attend a 10-day bridge program to complete a project-based experience in order to be ready for their first projects when they start the school year. These immersive experiences allow new staff and students to feel a sense of community on the first day of school.

2. Make School-Wide Goals Visible

Where do you post the goals for your school? Chances are, they are hidden away in a website or a staff room. Post school-wide goals in a visible place so that the entire school community will feel a shared sense of purpose. You can also recite your mission statement over the PA each day and provide an example of a student or classroom that is achieving it. In “ The Principal’s Role in Successful Schools ,” Shelly Habegger finds that even schools with a disproportionately high number of underqualified teachers and students from disadvantaged backgrounds experience greater academic success when a positive school culture is created.

3. Keep a Loyal Opposition

How do leaders move the school in a positive direction when there are loud voices that stand in opposition? Quite simply, according to Thomas Sergiovanni in The Principalship: A Reflective Practice Perspective , keeping a loyal opposition builds trust. At the International School of Beijing, for example, before rolling out any initiative to the faculty, the head of the school always asked those opposed to provide their critique. This gesture transformed the biggest naysayers into his greatest proponents. Another way to do this is to create a survey that asks staff members to rate their commitment to fulfilling each school-wide initiative. Invite them to include the additional support they need to reach each goal.

4. Establish Collaborative Networks

Once you have identified the greatest obstacles to achieving your school-wide goals, hire an educational consultant to help you overcome these obstacles. In New York City, LaShawnna Harris, the principal of P.S. 330Q in Queens, partnered with Morrison Healthcare to improve school culture through staff appreciation days and team-building activities. The school saw a 22 percentage point increase in the number of teachers who found the principal’s vision to be clear, as well as a 43 percentage point increase in the number of teachers who felt supported.

5. Hold School-Wide Rallies and Assemblies

How often does your whole school gather? While many schools have a smattering of assemblies spread across the school year, it’s less common to gather every morning. At Quest College Preparatory School in McCallen, Texas, the school gathers daily to celebrate achievements and emphasize expectations for behavior and character. These celebrations often include a school song, announcements by students of upcoming events, and sometimes a brief showcase of student work. Beyond building school spirit and unity, a daily routine like this helps keep you focused on the big picture as a leader (Related Article: Daily Assemblies: Deepening Relationships Through Ritual and Recognition )

Motivating a school is an effort that lasts throughout the year. By focusing on instilling a positive school culture, principals can make these tasks manageable and fulfilling.

How do you support a strong school culture in your building? Please share your strategies in the comments below. 

How To Inspire A Culture Of Strong School Spirit

Create Year-round Themes

Bring the outside community in, celebrate your school’s diversity, teach your students about sodas.

Amelia Hinn is a track coach by morning, teacher by day, and educational blogger by night. Her passion for all things school pride flows within her work and writing. Find her on Twitter @real_ameliahinn. 

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Opinion: How Important Is School Spirit?

Connor Weiss , Igaramkin Reporter | September 19, 2014

What defines a school? Is it the building? The classes? Or is it student involvement? School spirit is being proud of your school and representing it.

It shows other people that, as a school, you unite as one.

School spirit means something and can have a significant impact on your school experience.

I go to the best high school in Alaska, Dimond High.

Compared to other schools, our spirit stands over all of them.

Dressing up for spirit days, getting involved at events and going to pep assemblies make an unforgettable experience.

As a school, we have increased our school spirit over the last three years significantly. People are getting more involved, which makes it even better.

Tia Lowe, a senior at Dimond, said, “I think school spirit has a big affect on our school because us students become united.”

Unity makes us stronger as a school and school spirit helps that.

Taylor Schnell, a senior at Dimond, said, “It makes things way more interesting and fun. It gets kids more involved.”

Even Jack Sedor, another Dimond senior, says “I like how school spirit puts smiles on people’s faces and smiles are important.”

So why doesn’t everybody dress up for spirit days and go to sporting events? Do people not understand the importance of school spirit?

Lowe speculates that the reason not many people dress up for spirit days is because people think they are “too cool.”

This is most likely true, and I am ashamed to admit it. Some people think school spirit is dumb and pointless.

I believe that those people are the ones who never tried dressing up or getting pumped up for Dimond sports games.

This is where the phrase “don’t deny it till you try it” comes in to play. How do people know the fun and honor of school spirit if they never once get involved and get passed their stubbornness?

It’s almost depressing to think about how some people don’t love this school as much as I do.

There are people out there who think, “It’s just high school, it’s not that big of a deal,” but you’re here for four years, you might as well make the best of it. Make it fun. Make your time here a fun experience instead of acting like a prisoner who can’t wait to get out of jail you call “school.”

So what can we do to increase school spirit?

I am one of Dimond’s Commissioners of Spirit along with my good friend Brent Quinn. We are part of Dimond’s Student Government, and our job is to pump people up, be very very spirited and help make a great school experience for all students.

To increase school spirit, we try to make the spirit days fun and easy to dress up for, get lots of people to sporting events, get people excited, and explain the importance of school spirit.

Over the years, spirit has increased dramatically, but we could do even better. Brent Quinn believes that we should “make it mandatory for kids to dress up.”

I believe that is a good way for students to get involved. Teachers could even offer extra credit for kids who dress up.

I believe that this school is the best in Alaska.

School spirit can help make your experience at Dimond worthwhile. If everyone gets involved then it will be way more fun and exciting

We are Dimond.

We bleed maroon and gold.

We stand together as a pack, the pack of mighty lynx.

Stay golden.

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School Spirit Provides a Sense of Belonging

Posted July 20, 2020 in Library School

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It’s often said that school spirit is the heart of a school . You may also think of school pride in this way to. School pride helps foster a sense of belonging among students and staff who are part of a school. This sense of camaraderie has a powerful influence in school culture and academic performance—hence why school spirit is essential in so many ways!

Students and staff who actively participate in pep rallies, game day traditions, believe in their school motto, and proudly wear their school colors, all exemplify school spirit. By doing so, this gives the participant a sense of ownership and creates the feeling of being a part of something bigger than themselves. Representing your school with pride can be an exciting feeling. Positive school spirit results in a sense of wellbeing, both for individuals and the school community.

We encourage each one of you to be an active member in your school and embody school spirit. Be proud of where you come from and excited to represent your school in the best way possible. During the school year, utilize your spirit programs to spread positive spirits throughout the school and community. Including everyone in this process is crucial and so impactful.

Remember, we are all in this TOGETHER. Together as one unit, we can be inclusive, proud, and spirited!

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Essay on Importance of School

Students are often asked to write an essay on Importance of School in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Importance of School

The foundation of education.

School is the first step in our educational journey. It’s where we learn basic skills like reading, writing, and arithmetic.

Developing Social Skills

In school, we interact with classmates and teachers, learning how to communicate, work in teams, and respect others.

Character Building

School teaches us discipline, responsibility, and the importance of hard work.

Preparing for the Future

School equips us with knowledge and skills needed for college and careers, paving the way for a successful future.

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250 Words Essay on Importance of School

The foundation of knowledge.

Schools play an indispensable role in shaping the future of individuals and society at large. They serve as the initial platform where knowledge is imparted, forming the basis for further education and specialized skills. The importance of school education lies in its ability to create a strong foundation in a child’s life, contributing to their cognitive, social, and emotional development.

Developing Social and Emotional Skills

Schools are not just about academics. They are also the primary environment where children develop their social and emotional skills. Interacting with peers and teachers, participating in extracurricular activities, and learning to navigate social norms and relationships are critical aspects of a child’s education. These experiences help students understand the world around them, shaping their perspectives and attitudes.

Creating a Level Playing Field

Schools also play a crucial role in establishing equality of opportunity. They provide a platform where children from different backgrounds can learn and grow together. This diversity fosters a sense of unity, understanding, and mutual respect among students, preparing them for a globalized world.

Finally, schools prepare students for their future careers and lives as citizens. They equip students with essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making. These skills are not only vital for their professional lives but also for their personal growth and development.

500 Words Essay on Importance of School

The cornerstone of education: the importance of school.

Schools are more than physical structures where children gather to learn basic academic concepts. They are the cornerstone of a society’s educational system, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of individuals and, consequently, the community as a whole.

Knowledge Acquisition and Cognitive Development

The primary function of a school is to impart knowledge. Schools provide a structured curriculum, which ensures that students gain a comprehensive understanding of various subjects. This curriculum is not confined to academic knowledge alone but extends to essential life skills and moral values.

Social Skills and Emotional Growth

Schools are the first social microcosm children encounter. They learn to interact with peers, understand the dynamics of group work, and navigate social hierarchies. These experiences are vital in developing their social skills, empathy, and emotional intelligence.

Moreover, schools provide a platform for students to express their emotions and opinions. Participation in debates, drama, sports, and other co-curricular activities helps students manage their emotions, build resilience, and foster a sense of self-worth and belonging.

Furthermore, schools instill discipline and a sense of responsibility in students. The structured environment of a school teaches students time management, punctuality, and the importance of fulfilling commitments, preparing them for the professional world.

Creating Informed Citizens

Schools play a significant role in creating informed and responsible citizens. They teach students about their rights and responsibilities, fostering a sense of civic duty. Schools also promote cultural awareness and respect for diversity, contributing to social cohesion.

In conclusion, the importance of schools extends far beyond academic learning. They are the cradle of cognitive development, social skills, emotional growth, career preparation, and citizenship. The experiences and lessons learned in school shape individuals and influence their future, underlining the critical role of schools in our society. Therefore, it is paramount to invest in and prioritize quality education for all, as the school is the first stepping stone towards building an enlightened and progressive society.

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The Independent

Why School Pride is Important

Raiders show up to support the football team! 

Isha Shah , In-Depth Writer December 15, 2022

School pride is the idea of feeling a connection with the school community and being proud to represent the values of a school. The sense of belonging and pride have positive impacts on the school community from student success to a better school environment. 

School pride has been shown to increase student success and leadership. One research project by Varsity Brands illustrated that students with higher levels of school pride are more likely to perform better academically, are more civically engaged, and are also happier. In fact, these students are also more likely to have a better GPA and to look for secondary education after high school. About 90% of principals reported that its important to encourage school spirit and that it is a key measure of the effectiveness of administration. School spirit also helps students feel more connected to their community. Students report that their school pride has helped them feel like they belong in the school and therefore are more likely to ask for help and support systems. These students also involve themselves in school activities and events such as attending football games, watching school plays and participating in clubs and school sports. 

School spirit can be fostered through celebrating athletes, recognizing the hard work of student leaders and staff, and acknowledging the achievements of all students. 

Glenbard South has taken several initiatives to encourage Raider pride such as Welcome Wednesdays, Student of the Week, Raider wheel spin, and through celebrations of the Cross Country team that recently placed 3rd in state. 

According to one Glenbard South Student, “I am proud to be a Raider because I feel more connected to other students and staff in the building. In addition, I have found several supports within the Raider community!”

I'm Isha Shah, and I am a senior creator for the Video section. In my free time, I enjoy birding, learning, reading, and doing various outdoor activities...

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Why Is School Spirit Important?

Joseph Tantillo | 12 May, 2020

School spirit goes far beyond your typical   pep rally and can create a welcoming, motivating environment for those who step foot on campus each and every day. There are many reasons why school spirit is important to not only students, but the faculty and staff members as well. Here are a few reasons why school spirit is a must on your campus and some ways you can easily enhance your spirit!

Collaboration

When your school works together towards achieving a common goal, it helps to get many staff and students involved. School spirit helps to bring people together, that in other circumstances might not have worked well before as a team. Projects, such as hallway banners, décor and organizing team activities are a few easy ways to get students to cooperate and use their talents to create inspiring things around school. Many school spirit activities involve the help of students from all grade levels and the ultimate goal is to motivate others as well. For example, if students need to fundraise for a school dance, they will need to work together from all grade levels to advertise with school posters and flyers around campus, decide on fundraising times and even help to sell the items specifically. This collaboration gets everyone around school working towards a common goal and once achieved, inspires those who participated to work together again in the future for similar activities.

Students will take great pride in their school when equipped with the proper supplies and gear to show off their spirit. New school merchandise is exciting and supplying students with ever-changing designs and styles will make them anticipate the next look that they’ll all want to wear. From shirts, to keychains and umbrellas, there’s a wide variety of spirit gear they can sport in and out of the classroom to show off their pride. When wearing something with their school name, club or organization it makes students feel a great sense of responsibility and pride and allows them to show off something that they feel passionate about. Parents, faculty and staff can also sport this gear, gaining more attention to different age groups and sets of people. Students will feel happy and proud when their parents have something to brag about or show off and the same goes for the students themselves. When you’re involved in something that you spend a significant amount of time on, you will want people to know just how hard you have worked. If you give students the opportunity to have pride in their accomplishments, they will want to show it off to others. Whether this takes place at pep rallies, sports events or just around campus in general, showing their school spirit makes it easy to have something they can support.

School spirit plays a huge role in motivating students around campus. Picture walking down a hallway with boring, bare walls, in a solid grey color; no posters or visuals whatsoever. Now picture walking down a hallway filled with posters, flyers and banners full of color! Which hallway would you rather walk down every day? School spirit makes it easy to catch the attention of busy students when walking between classes and these simple banners and hallway designs can help to encourage them to do great in school. A motivational poster could go a long way for someone who is having a rough day and using school spirit to create a positive and inspiring environment can lead students to have a positive day and focus more in class. When their friends are all wearing the same school shirt for a particular event, sport or organization, they will most likely want to wear that too. During class, students have their attention on their teachers and if their teachers participate in school spirit, they are reminded of what their school stands for.

The more a student feels motivated with school spirit and is involved in and around campus, the higher their academic achievement is. School spirit and   academic achievement   go hand in hand and studies show a positive correlation. A positive and motivating atmosphere makes students want to get involved and helps them to create goals of their own to accomplish. If everyone in school is excited about something, they most likely will want to join in and not feel left out. School spirit will quite literally lift their spirits and create a sense of general happiness and positivity. This type of atmosphere encourages students and whenever you are in a good, positive mood it’s easy to think positive and want to achieve success. Think of school spirit almost as a means of advertising. It helps to get the word out about special activities, clubs and organizations, sports and other events and once students start hearing some buzz about particular things, they might find an interest in one of them. This helps to spread the word and get students involved in an extracurricular activity they might otherwise not get involved in. Using school spirit to advertise certain clubs or activities, allows students to get excited and want to join in, thus increasing their academic performance as they are more involved and encouraged to succeed by peers and staff members.

At Spirit Gear, we provide the best quality products for your school spirit needs. Unlike your typical supply stores, we customize many unique products for the perfect accessory every time. Choose from a wide variety of products including shirts, keychains and even umbrellas for a custom and unique design that will stand out in a crowd and have every student wanting to sport the latest in school spirit accessories. To encourage your students and enhance the school spirit in and around your campus, contact us today for help creating your next project and design.

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