Pep Rallies: A Waste of Time?

Tom Gould

 By Kevin Hart

            We all know about Spirit Week, Dress Up Day, and the pep rally held every year in our school. Spirit Week is the week-long event that students can partake in to demonstrate school spirit, either by dressing up, wearing their jerseys, or just simply cheering for their class. All of this leads to the main attraction: the pep rally. The pep rally is the main event in which all of the hype spills onto the floor of the gym, and every person in the school attends to watch the dancing, chanting, and, of course, the team introductions.
            However, no event comes without controversy, especially our pep rally. Some students will say that Spirit Week and the pep rally are both a good expenditure of time; however, there are a few people who disagree.

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            Indeed, some students are very enthusiastic about the pep rally. However, the reason why some may look forward to the event is that it can be viewed as a free period for approximately two hours. Ben Rivera, a sophomore at OBHS, revealed, “Pep rallies aren’t a waste of time, but they’re a waste of time when people don’t take them seriously.”
             Ms. Laura Keenan, who teaches 8th grade English, said, “I think Spirit Week is well intended, but I think it can also be a distraction to instruction."
           There are some students who don’t wish to go to the pep rally. They would prefer to spend more time in the classroom, or they would prefer to go somewhere more quiet, like the library, during the pep rally. However, this is not an option as all teachers, supervisors, and staff are placed in the gym with all of the students. Still, there are those who are adamant that going to the pep rally should be optional. Sophomore Bella Rosenthal explained, "Those who do not wish to attend the pep rally shouldn’t have to. If you enjoy it, go. If you don’t like pep rallies, then don’t.”
       People may also be concerned about the noise levels during the event, as one student was observed leaving this year's pep rally because he was upset by the high volume of noise.
            In addition, everyone is aware of the introduction of the teams and their players at the pep rally, but no one is introduced to the members of the numerous clubs since they are  not  involved in the pep rally. The pep rally also excludes the sports that take place in the winter and spring. Students do not get introduced to the clubs and sports like GSA, Spring Track and more.
            Though the pep rally has its flaws, it can also unite the community. That being said, it can definitely be improved upon. The pep rally has been a part of the high school for many years, and it doesn’t need to be entirely removed; however, making the pep rally more inclusive can only strengthen school spirit.