Homecoming Week 2018 for Jefferson High may be a misnomer. The celebration actually began September 28 and runs through Saturday, October 6, a nine-day span. And if the number of activities crammed into those nine days is considered, there is nearly enough to cover a homecoming month.
The observance started on Friday when students and staff decorated the school halls, painted the “J” on Depot Hill west of town, and painted Panther Paws around Boulder.
After a weekend of on-the-road sports, JHS students got back into the spirit Monday with “College Day,” followed on Tuesday by the ever-popular “Twin Day.” “Hawaiian Day” on Wednesday will be followed on Thursday with students and staff showing their Panther Pride in purple and gold. Thursday also includes an afternoon pep rally and float decorating before evening volleyball and the introduction of homecoming royalty.
Friday is jam-packed with activities, opening with the 9 a.m. “Run 4 Seventy-five” charity run/walk to benefit suicide prevention. Powder Puff Football at 11 a.m. will bring celebrants to the football field and Macho Volleyball will be served up at noon in the main gym.
Traditionally the biggest event of the week, the homecoming parade is slated for Main Street at 1:45 p.m.
The growing tradition of a homecoming carnival will kick off at 2:15 in the JHS parking lot near the football field. An array of student clubs will run the booths to entertain carnival participants and raise money. All of the proceeds from the carnival will go to the participating clubs.
Boosters will welcome community members to the 5 p.m. barbecue at the outdoor classroom, the pavillion northeast of the football field. Hamburgers, hot dogs and beverages will be available and attendees are asked to bring a side dish or dessert to share.
Friday will close out with the football game at 7 p.m. versus Whitehall.
But that is not the end of the big week. Saturday the Panthers will welcome volleyball teams to town for the JHS Volleyball Tournament. Play will run throughout the day in both JHS gyms and at the Boulder Elementary gym.
