Homecoming is meant to be a high school experience that we remember for the rest of our lives. From school spirit and pep rallies to the big game and parade to getting ready with friends, our parents begging for just one more photo and dancing until our feet hurt. It is an experience we only get in high school and we want to enjoy it with friends. Unfortunately, our homecoming dance is scheduled on the same day as the football game.

The football team, cheer team, marching band, auxiliary and those who help out at the game in other ways don't get the opportunity to go get their hair done, have dinner with friends, take photos or even get ready with friends. They're lucky to even have a chance to shower. It is a rush all day from one event to the next. Talk about stress and anxiety at a time when we're supposed to be having the time of our lives. Wouldn't you prefer to go home after the game, get a good night's sleep, wake up refreshed, take a hot shower, get your hair done, and meet up with friends for dinner before the dance? My mom has told me how much she enjoyed having a whole weekend dedicated to homecoming so that they could really enjoy it and take their time to make sure they all looked their best for the dance. It also allowed everyone the opportunity to get to experience every part of homecoming. Some of you will skip the game to go get ready. Some of you won't have the chance to leave the game to get ready. We deserve both. After all, we're only in high school once. We should have the right to choose what day the dance is.

It's time for our school administration to reconsider the current schedule. We urge them to make this small yet significant change for the year of 2026 and beyond. Join us in advocating for a balanced and enjoyable homecoming experience for all students. Sign this petition to show your support for a more inclusive and fair homecoming schedule.