Measuring The Pulse of Pride

By Braylee Chaney 

Is Pueblo County High School’s spirit fading or growing?

At PCHS, the sound of cheering used to echo through the gym during pep rallies, and the student section at football games was packed with green and gold. However, as the years have passed, many Hornets feel that school spirit just isn’t what it used to be.

“Nobody really participates in the spirit days or themes for games anymore. A lot of it is because they used to be on top of the themes and would send them weeks in advance, but now they wait a couple of days before the day to send it out, and you have to scramble to find the stuff to match the theme. Our spirit days are repetitive; we never have new ideas for the themes, and most get bored with them. All of it comes back to: it’s just not a theme people find fun, so they don't participate,” said Senior Lilly Mannon. 

Students say there isn’t just one reason school spirit seems to be fading away. Some point to busy schedules filled with homework, sports, and clubs, while others mention after-school jobs that leave them too tired to attend games or join in on spirit days. Many also admit that phones and social media can be a distraction, pulling their attention away from school events and making it easier to stay home instead of showing up. 

“I don't really go to the school events because of my busy schedule and work. Its easier to just stay at home and spend time with my family and just wait to see the events when they get posted,” said junior, Jaida Sturtevant. 

“The energy is always there, especially in rivalry games. It's our job as upperclassmen to show that energy, and we've been doing well. The Rowdies always show up, and the energy is always there,” said Junior Elijah Lewis. 

Still, some Hornets argue that the pride hasn’t disappeared completely. We point out the packed football games on Friday nights, spirited Future Farmers of America competitions, and the Homecoming Parade as proof that the Hornets are still alive. 

“School spirit is still alive and well because of the rowdies who run social media, encourage participation in spirit days, and attend sporting events,” explained PCHS Agriculture teacher Abbigail Johnson. 
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For these students and staff, the Hornet pride has simply shifted, showing up in different activities and traditions rather than fading away altogether. 
As the school looks ahead, many agree that the key to reviving school spirit lies in creating events that feel fresh and student-made.