By: Mahira Rahman and Sid Raghunath

  As homecoming concluded, students at Ridge showed out to welcome the long-awaited pep rally with open arms. The week of September 29th made its way, and the Mustangs geared up for a week of excitement and school spirit during the annual spirit week. Sparking fun memories with engaging activities and creating a sense of unity through new and different styles, Spirit Week has always been a highly anticipated and valued tradition at MRHS. Ending the week with the anticipated Pep Rally, students dressed in their class colors and cheered their peers on throughout the games and performances.

   “I enjoy dressing up for the spirit days leading up to the pep rally because it is a fun way to bring the school together, and it also builds up the excitement for homecoming week,” sophomore Claire Zhao shared. 

   Each day, students were given the chance to step outside their daily academic routines and be creative through themed outfits. But beyond the fun of dressing up, the week is about creating shared experiences that join the student body. Whether it is the laughter that roars through the school hallways in response to a funny outfit, or the growing anticipation for the pep rally and homecoming dance, students of all grades become more connected. 

   “The Pep Rally is fun because we get to group the whole school in one place. It brings the whole school together with games and cheer,” sophomore Nathan Belschner commented. 

   The Pep Rally provided a refreshing break from classes and extracurricular activities that usually take up the day for most students. It allowed students to cheer on their friends and classmates, making it an awesome way to end the week. These traditions showed many students that there is more to high school than just grades and stress, and that it’s about building a community. 

   “As a student, I like to get loud in the bleachers and participate in the Pep Rally games with my friends. Participating matters as a student because it makes you more a part of the community and helps you make fun memories,” senior and SGA President Henry Philips said.

   Participation is a big part of the MRHS community. Student participation not only helps the community create memories, but it also fosters encouragement for other students to join in and participate as well. This energy makes school events more exciting and shows that a contributing community can thrive. At MRHS, being in the crowd is more than just watching; it is also about taking part and helping shape a great experience for the rest of the students.

   As the Pep Rally came to a close, the MRHS community expanded on the tradition of celebrating Mustang pride with spiritwear, cheered loudly for their peers, and took a shot at the new and traditional games and activities.