On Friday, Aug. 17, Manual’s Executive Council hosted its annual Back to School Dance in the courtyard, marking the start of the school year. The event provides students a chance to reconnect after summer break, socialize with peers from other grades and welcome new students to Manual.
The dance was canceled last year due to busing issues that disrupted the JCPS schedule. However, due to the efforts of Executive Council sponsors, Ms. Speigelhalter and Mr. Morris, the dance returned this year. The event has recently become an annual tradition at Manual.
“This dance is a really great opportunity for all of the classes to interact. The freshmen have never really had a big school event, so they get to come out and see what Manual’s about. The seniors get to have a chance to have a dance in their last year and celebrate together,” Morris said.
The dance also provides a break from the academic pressures of the first week of school.
“It’s just fun to have an event to welcome everybody back to the school year that’s not academic,” Morris said.
Manual students view the dance as a key part of their school experience.
“I think dances and things like this make school really fun and special,” said Hailey Kincaid (HSU, 12). Having attended the Back to School Dance and other school events over the years, Kincaid values the ability to engage with the Manual community.
“My advice for underclassmen is to not take things too seriously. Go to all the dances and events that you can,” Kincaid said.
The dance is also a great way for Manual freshman to start off their high school experience.
“It’s our first social outing as freshmen, and I think it’s really fun to get to know each other,” Maya Bonifer (9, YPAS) said. Freshmen at Manual get a taste of what their next four years will be like, by meeting new people, mingling and dancing together.
In addition to its social benefits, the Back to School Dance helps fund other Manual events, including Red/White Week. The Executive Council, which organizes these events, plays a significant role in enhancing school spirit.
“The more kids that come to the dance, the more fun we get to have during Red/White Week,” Morris said.
The Back to School Dance not only offers social opportunities for students but also supports future Manual events through fundraising, making it a valuable tradition for the school community.
