Hillcrest High School’s Class of 2026 set the tone for their final year by participating in senior-led activities. It’s no secret that Senior year is a life-changing transition for students. From throwback day to black out day, our senior class showed out.
Dealing with the stress of college applications, scholarships, grades, and life after high school can be overwhelming. Students tend to find joy by doing senior activities throughout the year. Senior activities are planned nearly every month to encourage students to step outside their comfort zone and enjoy their last year of high school. Hillcrest High School conducted a senior spirit week where students were able to showcase their creativity and humor. This showcase of school spirit brought our school closer together and strengthened our community. Let’s take a look into the Senior Spirit Week and the energy Class of 2026 brought upon the school.
At Hillcrest High School, school spirit is tradition. Senior leaders planned a spirit week in September to kick the school year off right. On September 8th, seniors went all out and paid tribute to the iconic stars of the 90’s. Seniors had a good time and enjoyed showcasing their favorite celebrities of the 90’s. There were many Aaliyah inspired looks, while others dressed as members of groups and models. The baggy jean and gold hoop style was a common look amongst the seniors.
On Tuesday, students got to experience their Gilmore Girls vs Anne with an E aesthetic. The theme of Country Club vs. Country allowed staff members to join in on the fun by guessing our outfit choices. These themes also brought the class closer together. Senior Kyara Jones says, she felt spirit week brought the class of 2026 closer together. Kyara Jones mentions the peer connection she received during this school spirit, “Dressing up during spirit week made me feel more involved within the school and gave me a sense of connection with my peers.” The cowboy boots and preppy skirts were a great look and an amazing way to start off the Tuesday.
The following day was arguably the best day. On Wednesday, a total of 127 students got a very early start. Meeting at school at 5:45am to watch the sunrise is tradition amongst seniors around the world. At Hillcrest, there was a mixture of games, music, breakfast, and sunsets that the students got to experience. Many students let their creative minds roam free and created videos that we’ll be able to keep forever. Because this event was held so early in the day, students got to wear their pajamas all day long. There were so many robes, moo moos, and pajama sets that allowed students to comfortably continue the day. Senior Amya Woods also mentions the personal impact this spirit week has had on her and our school, “Spirit week definitely brought the senior class closer.” She also mentioned how we were able to inspire the underclassmen to participate in school spirit activities in the future. “It showcased for the underclassmen not to be scared and not to care about what anybody thinks!” This is such a powerful statement because seniors are the leaders of the school. If we are able to be bold and comfortable enough to show school spirit, it is likely our underclassmen friends will be too.
On the second to last day, seniors got to experience their own version of Teen Beach Movie. This theme split seniors into two groups, bikers vs surfers. The cool leather jackets, red lip, pool floaties, and sandals contributed to the humorous theme. Students got to link up with their friends and make entertaining tiktoks while fully embracing their role.
To close the week out, seniors went dark. In an attempt to support our football team’s black out theme, seniors participated in Emo day. The class of 2026 fully adopted the aesthetic and dressed in all black with creative makeup. To add a little laughter to the day, some seniors playfully scared the underclassmen with their emo outfits.
Secret senior week showcases that Hillcrest’s Class of 2026 knows how to balance fun and tradition. Our creativity and execution will contribute to an unforgettable senior year. Senior activity director, Ms. Kaczmarek says the participation in these activities “will be a great way for you to reflect on your time at Hillcrest.” The class of 2026 looks forward to repping their school spirit in the future. As the chillier months approach, the senior class continues to find creative ways to make their last year of high school memorable.
The Class of 2026 is ready to leave their mark and make senior year a special one!
