Month: September 2018

BY: Izzy Baker

On September 8 at 7:00 PM, MORP (Prom backwards) took place in the quad, the first dance of the year. With tickets at just $10 presale, $15 at the door, or free admission for students with an ASB sticker, many of Valencia’s tigers attended the event.

As the first dance of the year, MORP is meant to be relaxing and fun for everyone. Sophia Oh (12) President of ASB, differentiated MORP and other dances by explaining, “one thing that sets MORP apart from our other dances is that it really encourages students to come as they are. I love how students can just freely enjoy the dance with their friends, as well as make lasting memories.”

The theme was 70’s. Sure enough, many tigers showed up flaunting their own unique 70’s styles. Some groups of friends even sported matching outfits, including tie dye peace signs and shirts with their favorite bands.If the 70’s wasn’t displayed through student’s themed clothing, others proudly wore blue or gold, representing school spirit well.

Julianna Dauphin (11), Vice President of ASB, also gave a statement. “It is the highest attended dance of the year.” She continued to speculate, “ probably because students don’t have the pressure of finding a date, dressing up formally, and the low ticket price.” She believes the tradition of MORP will continue on throughout the years because it’s a good way of unifying the student body, especially at the beginning of the year.

Dancing was one of the main attractions at MORP, however, there were also chips and water being sold, as well as plenty of opportunities for students to take photos with their friends. Students with sore feet had the convenience of taking a breather to sit at the tables next to the dancing and take time to talk with their friends. There was even a “coat check” area where over 100 students left their cell phones and extra jackets so they could sweat the night away.

When asked why they wanted to attend the dance, a few students explained they liked being able to get involved in school activities, and enjoyed the throwback of early 2000’s music. Matt Quintero (12), said “It’s a good way to be involved with school and hang out with friends.” Another Senior articulated he “…would’ve regretted not going”, as it was his last chance to attend MORP, while another student said they came “to show school spirit”. MORP and school dances in general are good opportunities to get involved with Valencia outside of the school.

Many of the freshman also revealed they attended for  similar reasons: the dancing, music, and friends. However, one described the night as a good way to “meet new people and experience new things”. As MORP played a key role in integrating the newest class into high school life, it has also provided a memorable night for all of Valencia’s tigers who attended.

By: Izzy Baker

Kicking off the school year strong, the Fall Assembly was hosted on Friday, September 7th in the gym. Cheerleaders and ASB gave a warm, musical welcome back to all students, immediately creating an air of excitement surrounding the first school event of the year. After their lively introduction, cheer performed one of their trademark incredible high-flying routines as a segment into the next event.

Tigers were then greeted by their next host, PJ Hanson (12), who in turn introduced the theme of the assembly with his red trench coat and top hat, “The Greatest Showman.” There was also a parody video of the actual movie.

The focus was largely aimed at the Bell Game against El Dorado High School. For instance, the audience bore witness to its beloved Tiger mascot pursuing the well despised Chicken Hawk. ASB later announced that face paint would be available prior to the game and played a video to invoke school spirit against the notorious VHS rival. Lastly, as a way of demonstrating his Bell Game spirit, Mr. Louie declared his love for the touchdown song, which was also performed by two of Valencia’s trumpet players.

Aside from football, many other sports were also addressed at the assembly. The promo video gave Tigers insight into the rigorous practice and training their fellow students endure. Students also got a look at Valencia’s two dance teams through their flawless live performances. While the boys had the crowds cheering with some of their hip hop choreography, the girls caught attention with a jazz routine, sticking to the assembly’s theme.

Mr.  Leonard Takahashi also led a special teacher dance towards the end of the assembly, giving everyone a chance to see some of their teachers perform.

Before the assembly ended, however, there was a friendly game of musical chairs, making sure that both students and staff were involved. Representatives from all four grade levels and a few teachers competed in a sizable group, but after a few rounds Andy Pin came out victorious, representing the senior class.

Last but not least, ASB announced this year’s theme for Homecoming, which is taking place October 5, “Under the Golden Lights.”

Overall, the first assembly of the year did well to meet its goals of high spirits and unity. The energy in the gym welcomed the class of 2022 who only a few months ago were still in middle school. The roles everyone played, including ASB, staff, and even the audience left everyone with a buzz of energy that continued that evening at the Bell Game.