With the endless stream of students that swarm around every inch of the school, inevitably order is somehow maintained. There does exist some unity between the students, although only visible sometimes during football games or in the face of other schools. In short, we have some pride in our school, otherwise known as school spirit. Although not quite the same commitment or noise level as Seahawk fans, Issaquah High is still known for our ferocious and loud cheering, jeering, and celebrations. However, more work is done behind the curtain than most may think. The endless planning, goals, and eventual execution of all things school spirit is primarily run by the ASB team, a group that consists of students themselves. 

ASB has become a cornerstone of anything and everything spirit based, from blood drives to spirit days, and Issaquah is fortunate enough to have a hard working and knowledgeable class representing the student body. According to junior Emily Palm, “I think it is really up to everyone to make sure that they are doing their part in creating the environment that makes the high school so popular, but if you really want to take on some more responsibility, and make your college applications a little bit more impressive, ASB is definitely the way to go. Also our ASB team even has elected positions, from president to secretary, which gives a lot of incentive to the kids to work hard and try their best.” If you are interested in joining ASB, talk to Adviser Kelly Henry in room 2610. There is an application process, so be aware of the commitment and work that characterizes ASB as the dedicated group that they are. However, ASB is not the only source of school spirit that roams these halls. 

From Homecoming to senior prom, Issaquah pride is known throughout the district. There even is a non affiliated group of senior boys called “the refs” that help organize and theme many of the sporting events of the school. According to senior Thomas Resiner, “I think it’s super helpful to have some kids representing kids, especially with how many memories and such that we are going to look back on when we are older. Nobody remembers quiet football games, and I love that we can make a difference as students and for the students.” From the seniors to the incoming freshmen, Issaquah High school has become a place to be proud of your school, whether affiliated or not with the ASB group or in a group of your own. 

Despite spirit being traditionally based on trashing the opposing team, or hyping up your own, Issaquah continues to be a place where we as students can show our pride without being hurtful. A common example of this is the limited chants that are done at the football games, where we are able to be a little more catty than considered normal, but still follow the rules set in place in an effort not to be rude. According to senior Kalie Benson,  “I think people tend to forget that we are all human, and we try to be as nice as we can, especially in the way we show pride. I love that we all are super proud of the school, but we have to remember that what we do and say does affect others.” 

School spirit is something that will hopefully become a proud and loving memory associated with the memory of high school. Issaquah is famous for more than our trophy case, and that is what makes the school so nice.