Last week Friday brought out plenty of sunshine and smiles as Wildcats roamed the streets for another community celebration.

Little Wildcats fill the streets!

The 2013 Homecoming parade lined up at 4 pm at Bethel United Reformed Church to ready themselves for a 4:30 start time. Homecoming floats were judged by various members of the Junior High and High School faculties and were created around the theme of Superheros:

• The Freshman brought Batman & the Joker to life
• Sophomores channeled their inner Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
• The Junior class created the Justin League on their float
• …and Seniors brought The Avengers to life

It is worth noting that the 2016 float, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, not only featured the turtled heroes, but incorporated dry ice and a fog machine to simulate their sewer home. Such creativity helped them grab a first place nod from the judges as best 2013 JHS float!

Class representatives said that they chose the turtles as their superheroes because “…They are four turtles who work together to overcome their mutant-ness to be human…and they eat pizza!”

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle Float builders enjoy their victory.

Aside from float building and caped crusaders, Jenison High School enjoyed tremendous participation on behalf of the student body. The following groups were present for the parade: Homecoming Court, JV football team, cheerleaders, dance team, volleyball team, women’s swimming & diving team, men’s water polo team, thespian troupe, Sandy Hill Elementary families, JPS staff and their families, Jenison International Academy and “Power of Pink” (pictured below).

The evening football game put the Wildcat toughness on display, with green and white blazing on our new turf. Despite losing to East Grand Rapids 28-14, the ‘Cats showed tremendous determination and fight — something that always deserves applause!

Jenison High School Principal, Dr. Brandon Graham, had this to say about the festivities:

“Homecoming is a special time in Jenison and this year was no different. We had great participation from students of all ages who came out for the parade and the game– it was awesome to see their school spirit on display! I’m especially proud of our high schoolers for demonstrating creativity, for getting involved, and for supporting their team on the field!”

Until next year, here are some highlights and great memories from a fun night with the entire community:

Perfect weather for a parade!

Members of the Homecoming Court

Best Friends: Abby, Molly and Maddie celebrate together.

JHS football looks tough but comes up short on Friday night.

It’s a night to remember!