We’ve got spirit, yes we do! If we can do it, so can you! Don’t groan; that’s what the rest of the school year is for. One week of intense devotion won’t kill any of us, North Penn. We’re in the homestretch of homecoming, and even if you really can’t stand school spirit, think of it as support for your friends. SGA, which is an organization comprised of students we all elected, is throwing the pregame party. The football team, also all students, is going to be under a lot of pressure for a win. The homecoming court, students whom we elected to represent our school, will be on pedestals that night in front of the entire student body. The common ground here is the overwhelming number of students that have worked hard to make homecoming memorable for everyone involved. These students are our friends, and friends support each other. Spirit week isn’t just about the school – it’s about appreciating the effort of the people we like. So when you come in dressed to impressed, don’t think no one notices. After all, some of you are quite hard to miss.

Seniors, I expect a big push for participation. You’ve spent three years here, and the least you can do is acknowledge tradition. You’re the role models of the school now, so show everyone how we do it here at North Penn. Go big or go home. Juniors, you can get involved too. You may have realized by now that junior year is the hardest one you’ll face, but doing spirit week is a fantastic emotional relaxer. There’s nothing like taking a math test while wearing a cowboy hat. You’re invincible. Sophomores, it’s time to stop cowering and show your creativity. No one knows you yet, so it’s time to stand up and show off. I believe in you.

So where to begin? Monday is ‘Merica Monday during which you’re at liberty (see what I did there?) to be as crazy as you want while showing that patriotic pride. Whether you show up in simple red, white, and blue, or wrap yourself in an American flag demanding to be called Captain Americana, there is no right or wrong. Bandanas are welcomed to highlight the hard workers inside all of us, and there will be a prize awarded to the person who gets the National Anthem stuck in the most people’s heads (please don’t try). If for some reason you hate America, remember what I said about friendship. Also, I hear Syria is nice is this time of year.

Team Tuesday is the oddball of the week, but we’ll roll with it just the same. You’re invited to flaunt your favorite professional or collegiate team in any way you wish. Wear the logo, paint half your face, or kidnap an athlete to follow you around school all day. Nothing shows your admiration like a giant foam finger. You can choose from baseball, football, basketball, soccer, hockey, and anything else you may find on TV. Not a sports fan? You may as well break out the Team Edward and Team Jacob t-shirts just for giggles. You probably won’t be the only one.

Western Wednesday is exactly what it sounds like. It’s the time to break out the cowboy boots and hats to give a loud “Howdy!” to all of your closest friends (and anyone within a five mile radius). While you may feel that these hallways aren’t big enough for the 3,000 of us, showdowns are prohibited until 2:12 that afternoon. But if you have a self-conscious “yeehaw” and no cowboy boots, you could always dress it up like you’re from the West Coast. Even Katy Perry thinks those Californians have something worth talking about.

Thursday is when we kick it back to a much simpler time. During Throwback Thursday we’ll be looking for the best looks from every decade. I’ve seen everything from togas to denim skorts, so no time period is off limits. The greater the fashion faux pau, the more fun you’re bound to have. For those of us who feel like we’ve been born in the wrong decade, it’s time to embrace the past and let your inner DeLorean rev past eighty-eight. Even if you can’t be bothered, throwback to Wednesday and just wear the western outfit two days in a row. Easy.

Finally there’s North Penn Friday. More so than the others, Friday is all about your school spirit. Come in wearing all the North Penn gear you’ve accumulated over the years: shirts, socks, sweatshirts, and everything in between. It will be the night of the big game, and the whole school needs to get pumped. What better way to end homecoming than with a win? Let everyone know North Penn students bleed blue for their school.

Even if you can’t bring yourself to participate the entire week, some spirit is better than no spirit. Pick the day that you think will be the most fun and have at it. Good luck, North Penn!