Avery Morris ’26 Stella Turner ’26
Photo courtesy of @ea1785
Every year, students buzz with excitement as they await the announcement of the homecoming theme. This year, the theme is “A Night on Broad Street,” which embraces the current state of the Philadelphia sports climate and showcases the excitement brought to our community. But few realize just how much thought, creativity, and teamwork go into choosing it. From the first brainstorming sessions to the final touches of decoration, planning homecoming is a team effort where students, committees, and faculty advisors come together to create an unforgettable night for all Upper School students. What looks like one night of dancing, lights, and laughter is actually the result of months of behind-the-scenes work and collaboration.
The homecoming theme isn’t picked at random or simply chosen for fun aesthetics. Student Council President Charlotte Franklin ’26 shares that this year’s theme was carefully chosen to “bring everyone together through Philadelphia spirit.” She explained that the Student Council wanted something that reflected both school pride and the broader sense of unity that the city represents. “This theme is intended to include everyone as part of the celebration,” Franklin adds.
The process begins early in the school year, when the Student Council gathers ideas from classmates, reviews feedback from previous dances, and looks at current trends that might resonate with students. After narrowing it down to a few top choices, both students and faculty advisors meet to evaluate which themes are most practical to put together, considering things like decorations, color palettes, and how easily the gym or field house can be transformed. Ultimately, the final decision is made through a vote between the Student Council and faculty advisors, ensuring that the chosen theme represents everyone’s voice and captures the community’s shared enthusiasm. Franklin notes how supportive the faculty has been throughout the process: “Our advisors are always there to help us think realistically about what can be done, while still letting us get creative.”
But beyond the sparkle and spirit lies something less glamorous yet just as important: financial planning. Hosting homecoming requires careful budgeting and execution to ensure that they stay within budget. Every year, STUCO is given a certain amount of money allocated towards events like homecoming. Guaranteeing that they remain within budget is no easy task, but it is imperative to the event to run smoothly.
Student Council advisor Ms. Yu shared that the annual budget for homecoming is approximately $4,000. The majority of that money goes toward hiring the DJ and purchasing decorations, both of which are essential for a night of fun. Ticket sales help offset some of these costs, but they rarely cover everything. “We’re very fortunate to have such supportive families,” Ms. Yu explains. “Every year, our EA parents graciously provide the food and drinks that make the event complete,” adds Yu. That generosity, combined with the dedication of students and staff, allows the student council to pull off the celebration year after year.
VI Form Dean Mr. Richards believes that this year’s theme captures that perfectly. “This year’s theme will definitely be loved by the students and bring everyone together,” he explains, There’s something about the Philadelphia spirit, it’s loyal, it’s proud, it’s passionate, and that’s exactly the energy we want to see at homecoming.”
As the lights go up and the music starts on homecoming night, students may not be thinking about the hours of planning, budgeting, and teamwork that made it all possible. But thanks to the dedication of the Student Council, the guidance of faculty, and the support of the community, the event continues to be a shining symbol of unity, one that captures the heart of the school and the soul of the city it celebrates.
