From spirit days to parades, this week is jam-packed full of preparation for this year’s Homecoming: Dancing Through the Decades. With the spirit assembly, parade and football game on Friday, Sept. 19, as well as the dance itself on Saturday, Sept. 20, students have plenty to look forward to.

The Monday of homecoming week brings DGS all the way back to the 1970s, then throws them into the 1980s on Tuesday, brings them into the 1990s on Wednesday, and finally arrives in the 2000s on Thursday. Followed, of course, by the signature mustang blueout.

Leading up to the heavy-hitting events, however, there are opportunities to engage with spirit days and lunchtime activities during all of homecoming week.

Sophomore Sam Gurrola shared that he prefers the leading events to the dance itself.

“Games in the commons, the signs students make, the parade, the assembly, and the football game all make Homecoming an event to look forward to and elevate the homecoming experience,” Gurrola said.

Yet the spirit days aren’t just for looks; they also bring the entire school to life.

Junior Caitlin Kippes has a great love for Homecoming.

“I do think spirit week is also really important … because it also helps get people excited for something,” Caitlin Kippes said.

“I love Homecoming because it’s one of the only times we get to dress up, and school is so fun with all the games we do the week leading up to the dance,” Kippes said.

The energy surrounding the event is crucial, both from the student involvement level and from the DJ. As music dictates the experience of the dance for many, students feel strongly about their selection.

“I think it’s always fun having the DJ curate the songs that he plays at Homecoming. The DJ makes the experience feel more complete and enjoyable,” Gurolla said.

“I think the DJ is really important for keeping the energy up at Homecoming, so when they play fun and upbeat songs, I enjoy the dance more,” Kippies said.

Meanwhile, from a staff standpoint, the selection of all vendors, including the DJ, is taken from a more administrative perspective.

Special services teacher Jamie Trent is among three teachers tasked with sponsoring Homecoming. Meaning she carries an instrumental role in the nitty-gritty of the event.

“All our contracts with vendors that we use for school dances and other events are approved by Ms. Martinez and the administration,” Trent said.

“This is my second year being a sponsor with two other teachers, and we work with Ms. Martinez to plan an amazing week for the students of DGS,” Trent said.

While preparations are still ongoing, Homecoming is gearing up to be a highlight for many.

“I can’t wait for Homecoming,” Gurrola said.