Heights High's homecoming celebration embraces community

The Fairfax Elementary School contigent marching in the Heights High Community Homecoming Parade.

The Heights Homecoming Celebration, Oct. 6–8, featured a high-energy pep rally, a community parade down Lee Road, discounts at Lee Road businesses, a football game, a high school open house, and the annual Happy 5K & 10K Fun Run.

On Friday, Oct. 6, Heights High’s school day culminated in an all-school pep rally organized by student council. The event recognized all of the fall-season athletic teams and many clubs, and included an award presentation by American Family Insurance to senior football player Tyreke Smith, who has been selected to play in the Under Armour All-American game in January.

The homecoming court was presented to the student body, and a DJ from 107.9-FM emceed a dance off, playing popular music that had many students singing along and bleacher dancing.

A few hours later, the homecoming parade set off along a new route that started at Fairfax Elementary School and proceeded down Lee Road toward the high school.

Two Cleveland Heights bicycle police officers led the parade, followed by Heights High’s marching band and many student and community groups. The school district’s transportation department was the parade’s award winner, with a parade entry that featured a dance team leading a decorated school bus.

The homecoming football game on Friday evening ended with Heights High losing to Bedford, 42-48. Saturday night’s homecoming dance, sponsored by student council, was well attended and lively.

On Sunday, the city of Cleveland Heights sponsored the Happy 5K & 10K run, which had the largest turnout so far in the three-year history of the event.

The parade, a parade watch party and the Heights High open house were planned by Heights Schools Foundation Executive Director Julianna Johnston Senturia (‘87), the organization's trustees, and many district, city and business partners.

“Our goal was to make the parade a community event,” said Johnston Senturia. “This was an amazing first-year collaboration. We really appreciate the support [of] the Cedar Lee Business District, the city of Cleveland Heights and the Cleveland Heights Police Department. No matter what your connection is to our schools, it's undeniable that they are an important part of our community. We invited everyone to join the party!”

Joy Henderson

Joy Henderson is the parent/community liaison for Heights High.

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Volume 10, Issue 11, Posted 1:37 PM, 10.10.2017