More Than Cheers: Pep Rally Brings Community to Life
On September 4th, 2025 Leonia High School kicked off the start of the school year with their Fall Pep Rally. The first ever LHS Pep Rally was introduced to the school in 2023 in the school gymnasium and consisted of many different student involved activities and games where different grades or individuals competed for things like minga points. Since this first pep rally, many students look forward to competing against each other in these fun events or spending time with their friends if they chose to not participate. The first Pep Rally of the year also introduces all of Leonia’s Fall sports followed up with a short speech from one of the athletes each time. In the winter and spring, this same introduction is done for the other athletes in order to spread the word on any upcoming games or matches.
High school senior Maia Boyd shared her favorite part of the pep rally. “The games and challenges, especially musical chairs, make the pep rallies really fun.” she said. “I feel like it really helps to bring up our school spirit.”
Every year our staff and student council work together to improve the pep rallies, whether it’s introducing new games or keeping the same classics that everybody knows and loves.
In a follow-up, Maia was also asked about what she would like to see more of or see differently in future pep rallies. “I would love to see more themes added for the students,” she said.
A faculty member, Ms. Nufrio also shared what her favorite part of the pep rallies are. “The games and the school spirit really shine through and make the pep rallies great but my favorite thing is when our mascot Leo comes out. He’s a real one.” she said.
Our school mascot Leo the Lion was a new addition to the school as well. His high playful energy and interactions with the students are a big part of what makes this school’s pep rallies so unique.
In a follow-up, Ms. Nufrio was asked if she felt that more staff should be involved in these pep rallies. “They should 100% be involved, their involvement would only add excitement and build up the school community more,” she said.
Leonia High School pep rallies have become a huge tradition during the school year, allowing students to bond with each other and create memorable experiences during their time here in high school. Whether you’re a freshman entering your first year or a senior getting ready to move on to a new chapter of your life this event made everyone feel included and valued.
