When you think of homecoming, what comes to mind? For some, it’s the classic parade through town, a packed football game under the lights or dressing up for theme week. For others, it’s Powderpuff games, pep rallies or even the big dance. At many schools, these traditions go back decades. But for Liberty, it’s different and exciting.
Since opening its doors in 2017, Liberty has been more than just a new building with fresh paint and clean hallways. It’s been a blank canvas, waiting for students, staff and the community to shape its identity—most evident during homecoming week.
While Liberty may not have the long-standing traditions that some older schools do, what they do have is a unique opportunity: the chance to create their own.
Taylor Cavahn (she/her), 12, is on Liberty’s student council, which creates and assigns the dress-up day themes.
“It helps us build our school’s culture and community. Homecoming is one of the events that really brings our school’s culture together, and I think that’s important,” Cavahn said.
Each year, homecoming week has grown, not just in size, but in spirit.
“It really showcases what our community is about, and I think that is something to be valued. It’s also helping set a precedent for future students. Something to look forward to and enjoy,” Cavahn said.
The annual parade has become a favorite among students and families, featuring floats made by clubs, sports teams and community groups.
“So many young kids look up to us, and it’s important to show up, be confident, and participate in events, especially the parade,” Cavahn said.
One of the most talked-about events is the Powderpuff game, where students switch roles – girls take the football field while some of the football players coach and cheer from the sidelines. What started as a fun twist has quickly become a student favorite and a permanent part of the week.
There’s also Theme Week, where each day gives students a reason to dress up, laugh with friends and show their school spirit. From Pajama Day to Dress as your Class Day, the halls of Liberty come alive with creativity and fun.
“We have the tradition of always doing P.J. Day on Monday for spirit week, and I love it because it’s a classic,” Cavahn said.
The Friday night football game brings out the whole town, cheering on the football team and celebrating school pride with a loud and proud student section.
All of these events lead up to the grand finale: the homecoming dance. Students get dressed up and put on their best dancing shoes to go to Liberty and party.
As Liberty continues to grow, so will the traditions. Maybe next year will bring a new tradition, a community service day, or a mural to mark each graduating class. The possibilities are endless, and they all start with student voices and school spirit.
As students celebrated this year’s homecoming, they are not just taking part in traditions; they’re creating them.
