By 8 a.m. sharp, the parking lot behind Cicero’s was buzzing with activity. Performers from school bands, cheerleaders, and dancers were warming up to take the spotlight on Delmar for the annual homecoming parade. By 10 a.m., the parade lineup was set and every float was prepared to follow the parade route down Delmar to Hanley and end on Balson right before the school’s doors.

This year, the parade and other homecoming events were coordinated by algebra teacher Ms. Lauterborn. She was responsible for organizing the lineup for the parade, negotiating traffic control and the parade route and informing the public about the parade and other festivities. According to Lauterborn, there were more floats this year and more participation than in homecoming parades of previous years.

Lauterborn was also responsible for judging the floats this year. Once again, field hockey won first for best high school float.

Students of all grade levels participated in the parade. Senior Miquella Cochren was one of the students allowed to march with classmates alongside the senior float. She rode on the float and tossed sweets into the crowd. Along with others, the seniors began decorating their float at 7:30 a.m. with the help of faculty assistant Mr. Sanders.

“I enjoyed passing out candy and being there with other seniors,” said Cochren. “It was exciting seeing all of those people and happy children.”

Some teams opted to walk in the parade rather than make a float. Cheerleaders walked beside their coach’s decorated car, taking an occasional stop to cheer.

“It was nice to actually be face to face with the crowd,” said junior cheerleader Dajah Warren. “It was more fun cheering than riding a float; I got a chance to show my spirit.”