So be true to your school now

Just like you would to your girl or guy.

Be true to your school now

And let your colors fly.

This is a verse from a 1960s song by the Beach Boys called “Be True To Your School.” Many could say these lyrics are outdated, behind the times, and much too innocent for today’s world. But is the value of school pride really “outdated?” Should pep rallies stay or should Haverford let them go? I believe we should keep them, and here are some key reasons why.

First, pep rallies are a welcome break from the tiring school day for both students and staff. Would you rather complete tedious assignments or go to a cheerful celebration of school spirit? Plus, pep rallies are just overall fun! I for one love being at pep rallies because I get a chance to talk with friends and listen to good music played by the band. 

What better way is there to showcase Haverford’s many activities than at a pep rally? For one, the band plays the music, the cheerleaders get everyone hyped up, and our robotics club drives Henry, the school mascot and surprisingly speedy remote-controlled car. 

Pep rallies are a great way for the school community to welcome new students to Haverford High. Newcomers may feel out of place or overwhelmed at first, especially since our high school is so big! Pep rallies can give these students a sense of belonging and remind them that they, too, are Fords.

In addition, there are students who have been in our district for many years but sometimes feel like they don’t belong with their classmates at Haverford. Pep rallies can give these students a feeling of school pride and togetherness with others that they may not feel in other social situations. Did you know that a survey from 2021 by the CDC found that 61.5% of all U.S. high school students felt connected to their school? It turns out that feeling connected to school can lead to reduced emotional distress, improved mental health, and fewer risky behaviors. So pep rallies, by better connecting us to each other and to HHS, may make us healthier. 

Another reason pep rallies are important is that they promote key Haverford values of community and pride. Since its founding in 1906, HHS has been very passionate about school pride. Haverford is unique because we are lucky enough to have a highly supportive and community-centered school environment; we love to celebrate each other’s achievements and practice unity through pep rallies.

Finally, pep rallies are a key part of the high school experience! When we are older, the things we’ll most remember about high school will probably not be the details from our classes, but the feeling of energy and excitement in the gym cheering on the Fords.