By Hope Hummel, staff writer
Here at Indian Trail High School and Academy, the activities director has always played a key role in whipping up school spirit. Students have many memories with Adam King, from his t-shirt sales to the time he wore a tutu during the lunches. But as it goes, when one door closes, a window opens.
So as the school bids farewell and good luck to King, students and staff now welcome Andrew Atkins as activities director. Atkins, who has a background in counseling and teaching, was chosen for this position out of 46 candidates. He has been in education for about 16 years.
In his first year here at the Trail, he hopes to ensure the students comfort and safety when entering school.
“Everyone should feel safe coming in the building,” said Atkins.
Assistant Principal Amy Riedlinger emphasized how important student comfort is to Atkins, saying he “has a way of getting people involved in whatever way is most comfortable for them”.
Atkins hopes to continue previous traditions, as well as create a new culture, since IT is still a new high school. As for the Tackle Pink tradition, the school has beaten its previous record for money raised, raising almost $8,000 last month.
When mentioning how IT and Bradford combined fundraising for The Circle of Hope, Atkins added, “To raise money for breast cancer survivors is not a competition. The competition stays on the field”.
Riedlinger can attest to that, calling him a “team player”, and making it clear that Atkins jumped right into his new position.
As for expected changes, Atkins is interested in a more student-centered Student Council, which has officially hit 100 members.
Another change to be aware of is the lack of fireworks at the annual homecoming football game. This year, however, the benefit outweighs the loss in this situation. Atkins explained that the cost for the fireworks is one-fifth of the set budget, and only about 100 people a year stay to watch them. Instead, with the money being saved, he plans to take requests to support clubs here at Indian Trail.
Noting that King was a huge part of the school for five years, Atkins said “He did an amazing job. He started the culture and climate [of this school]”.
In terms of difficulties in his first year, Atkins is still learning our systems and getting to know the teachers and students.
“We’re IT,” Adkins said, reciting the school’s popular mantra.
Hawks flew to the football game where the Hawks played against the William Horlick High School Rebels. Though the Hawks lost 21- 26, adoring fans as well as the ITHS&A pep band cheered from the stands.
Lastly, to end the festivities, the homecoming dance took place on Oct. 10. More than 1,000 students attended the autumn moonlight themed dance, and were treated to many exciting displays such as an indoor campfire and a photo booth. Halfway through the dance, seniors Ruby Ruiz and Ricky Medina were crowned homecoming king and queen.
All in all, homecoming week 2015 was one of the busiest to date and it had students and staff saying “Oh Hawk Yeah.”