Enthusiastic, colorful and welcoming. The atmosphere in the sanctuary of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church during the Community High opening ceremony on September 7th epitomized the school itself. As the student body filed in to begin the 2010-2011 school year the noise of excited chatter was eclipsed only by the throbbing beat of the jazz band’s melody.
Opening day began much as it has in the past with traditions such as song parodies and the introduction of Community High staff. Further appearances were made by local business owners, Tuned In, and students who spoke about the many ways they serve the Ann Arbor community.
The opening day presentation focused on creating excitement for the upcoming school year as well as encouraging students to contribute their community. Seniors Spencer MacDonald and Chelsea Cendrowski were honored for their work in the community with the Beam of Light award. Both students have volunteered for Ann Arbor based organizations.
On the less serious side of the ceremony, emcees Gil Eisbruch, Kyle Aaronson and Chelsea Evans-Warren turned the popular Miley Cyrus song “Party in the USA” into an instant hit with “Party at Communitay.” Their excitement was matched by the student group Tuned In that answered questions which new students might have.
Although the beginning of the school year always kicks off with a little comedy, the opening ceremony can make a significant first impression. As the assembly in St. Andrew’s is the first whole-school gathering for new Community students, it can make or break the first day experience.
Freshman Aina Keslaw-Fletcher was struck by the individuality of the morning’s proceedings. “It was really entertaining and I certainly wasn’t bored,” said Keslaw-Fletcher of the opening ceremony. “It was a lot different than I expected. I thought it would just be the principal talking about classes and lockers but no… it wasn’t,” she said.
Keslaw-Fletcher continued to be impressed when more experienced students were willing to lend a hand. “Several people had to help me find places, but in the end I think I know where all of my classes are now,” said the freshman.
The festivities continued at lunchtime. Community Assistant Kevin Davis, along with five parent volunteers grilled hamburgers, hotdogs and vegetarian options during lunch.
This Community tradition has students lining up for yards during their lunch period to sample the fare. The first day barbeque can be traced back for many years. “I know that Peter [Ways] did it when he was dean and Judy [Conger] did it when she was dean so I can go back about ten years,” said Dean Jen.
Preparations for the barbeque start long before students line up at noon. Kris Hicks organizes the food on the first day. Returning, says Dean Jen with a “carload” of food from Gordon Food Service to feed the hungry students.
Immediately after the opening ceremonies are completed, rented grills are delivered to the front lawn and from 9 o’clock onwards the set up continues.
A laid back atmosphere and an upbeat opening ceremony are the perfect way to begin the first day of school. Students can relax and catch up with friends. However, this initial experience can set the tone for an entire year. For Keslaw-Fletcher her first experience is a sign of good things to come. “The first day kind of tells me that this is not a school where they look down on you because you are a freshman,” she said. “I had a lot of fun. I know I’m going to like it here.”
Listen to “Party at Communitay,” a parody of Miley Cyrus’ “Party in the USA.”
