Implemented in 2020, ASB’s House System brings students together, offering them an opportunity to form part of a community depending on their house. Each student can then earn points, whether by wearing House colors or by taking part in competitions. This is why, starting Tuesday, the 24th of October, the Student Council conducted a high school spirit week with opportunities to build community and acquire House points through activities including three-legged races, chess competitions, and giant tic-tac-toe relays.
Ever since its establishment, the House System has been a tradition kept alive by both the Student Council and ASB high schoolers. Every year, the 9th graders are sorted into one of ASB’s four houses according to their homerooms, with new students also being randomly sorted into a House despite coming to ASB in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade. The Houses, Apollo, Artemis, Athena, and Poseidon, are represented by the colors red, green, yellow, and blue, respectively. Throughout the year, students unite with their peers to earn House points with the hope of winning the final prize of the year: the House Cup. Last year, House Cup winners Artemis members enjoyed a carnival-themed celebration that included drinks, popcorn, and different games. Currently, however, Apollo is in the lead with 1020 points, followed by Athena with 865 points, Poseidon with 710 points, and Artemis with 640 points. This leaderboard is also showcased on the second floor of the high school building, and is updated regularly by the Student Council.
During the Halloween spirit week, the Student Council planned and carried out a series of events and friendly competitions between students in addition to offering treats including chocolate or popcorn. On the first day of the festivities, Tuesday, the amphitheater housed the giant tic-tac-toe game, while, on Wednesday, multiple students tried to make a basketball shot from half-court. Later on in the week, they also had the option of either participating in a chess competition or of watching part of the Barbie movie, both of which awarded high schoolers house points. The following Monday, the 30th of October, a three-legged race was hosted in the amphitheater. Finally, on Tuesday, students enjoyed a multitude of Halloween-themed activities and festivities, including the Student Council-led assembly. As a result of this week, the points of each house rapidly increased due to the effort put in by the students.
As the 2023-24 school year goes by, ASB students will have more opportunities to earn points for their houses and to participate in fun events and activities organized by the Student Council. For now, however, many have commented on their enjoyment of the Halloween festivities, and look forward to next year’s celebration.