Starting at around 5:45 PM on October 25, ghosts, princesses, a few ninja turtles, and Wednesday Addams were amongst a sea of elementary aged students lined up to register for the second Spartan Spooktacular. An event originated by United Spartans, under the direction of Mrs. Kertoy, and Alpha Omega, under the direction of Mrs. Testa, the Spooktacular now seems as if it will be a staple in future years.
This year’s five dollar fee benefitted Hempfield Area Mini-THON, a student-led organization that raises funds for pediatric cancer research.
The elementary students followed a spooky path down the main hallway where they could trick or treat and engage with students from United Spartans, NHS, SNHS, Student Council, Project 18, ITS, Choir, Mini-THON, ESS, NAHS, NEHS, and Spartan Planning Committee.
An interactive story read by NEHS members in costume had students stomping their feet and yelling “BOO!” with excitement. Next, students arrived at the cafeteria, where they could paint pumpkins, design a ghostly craft, decorate cookies, and participate in games. Outside of the cafeteria, NAHS students, organized by Mrs. Daignault, set up a stunning photo booth, and Spartan Event Planning students, under the direction of Mrs. Fetterman, designed a neon haunted house filled with mad scientists.
Almost 200 elementary students took part in the festivities from 6-8 PM. Senior Malea Nadeo exclaims, “It was nice to see all the young children and families smile and have fun together.”
This event is one that brings everyone in the high school and beyond together for a spooky experience and a united night. We hope, as senior Logan Helman says, “The kids had a great time.”
