With the excitement of Homecoming season approaching, the anticipation for Madill High School's Homecoming Parade is palpable. This year, the Madill Alumni Association is dedicated to making the event even bigger and better, bringing together students, parents, grandparents, and the entire community to celebrate the spirit of Wildcat pride.
Forthesecondconsecutive year, the school has approved the Madill Alumni Association to host float construction at the Madill Community Center (fair barn) from Monday, October 7, to Thursday, October 10. The association is taking on all “sponsor” responsibilities, freeing school personnel from the obligation of being present. This collaborative effort aims to foster community involvement and ensure a successful float-building experience for all participants.
Both Victor Salcedo, Madill Public Schools Superintendent, and Chad Speer, Madill High School Assistant Principal and Head Coach, have introduced a proposed point system that incorporates participation and cleanliness for the Class Float contest, further encouraging students to engage with this cherished tradition. Each high school class will have $250 available for float supplies, ensuring that creativity and teamwork can flourish during the construction period.
The excitement continues with the Homecoming Pep Rally scheduled for Thursday, October 10, at Blake Smiley Stadium. This year, the event will kick off with a special initiative called “Passing the School Spirit.” Kindergarten students will line up in one end zone, while the Senior class will gather in the opposite end zone. They will meet at the 50-yard line, where the Seniors will gift the Kindergarteners a school spirit item, emphasizing their role in carrying on Wildcat pride. Together, they will clap and sing the fight song as the band plays, symbolizing the ushering in of a new Wildcat Era. This heartwarming event is hoped to become a cherished tradition, fostering a sense of unity among all grades. The community is invited to join this festive gathering, which begins at 7:00 p.m., just before the big game.
The Homecoming Parade itself will take place on Friday, October 11, at 2:30 p.m., showcasing the hard work and creativity of students and community members alike. With high school and middle school dismissing at 1:40p.m.andelementarystudents at 2:00 p.m., the parade promises to be a highlight of the week. All entries need to be in place by 2:00 p.m., with class floats expected to arrive earlier to ensure a smooth setup.
Following the parade, floats will be displayed for community viewing in the parking lot of the Madill Public Schools Administration Office, with a reminder that they must be removed by 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 12. The Homecoming Ceremony will cap off the festivities at 6:15 p.m. on the football field, where the community will gather to celebrate the spirit of Madill.
The Madill Alumni Association is actively encouraging everyone to get involved in this year’s Homecoming festivities. Whether the participant is a parent, grandparent, or community member, their participation is invaluable. They are seeking chaperones and drink/ snack sponsors to help make the event a success.
This year, the theme invites everyone to channel their creativity and spirit. “Homecoming on the Square... you know it ALL TOO WELL. Homecoming in a small town just HITS DIFFERENT.” With opportunities to represent various eras from the past, the parade is a chance to rekindle memories and showcase the pride of Madill High School.
Floats will be judged by the community through an online voting system on the day of the parade, allowing everyone to participate in the fun and excitement. With categories for High School Class, Other School Organization or Class, and Community/Business, the competition promises to be fierce, but friendly.
Lastyearmarkedarevival of traditional float-building that had been absent for years, and the joy it brought to students was evident. The Madill Alumni Association is committed to keeping this tradition alive, ensuring that future generations of students can enjoy the same camaraderie and creativity.
Let’s make MHS Homecoming 2024 a day to remember. Join the Madill Alumni Association in celebrating the school's heritage and supporting the students who bring the community together. For more information and to sign up for float construction, please email cspeer@madillok.com or madillhsalumni@gmail. com. Together, let’s keep the spirit of Madill High School thriving.