Following a multi-year tradition, freshman advisory classes constructed door decks based on the homecoming theme: salad. This year’s slogan is “We be dressing for HoCo 2019.” 

Counselor Douglas Stansberry and others will judge door decks Thursday, Oct. 3 to select one class as a winner to receive a pizza or donut party during its advisory period.

“This year we’re looking for adherence to the theme,” Stansberry said. “We want it to be Rock Bridge related. You know, does it look nice? Is it eye catching? Is it colorful, and does it show creativity? Does it show that extra… standout [piece].” 

While most of the tradition remains consistent to the past, such as a food-based party for the champion class, there were a few changes to the system. In previous years advisories hung door decks around the entrances to advisory classes spread across the school. This year’s change brought all the door decks to the main hallway. Advanced Placement teacher Gregory Irwin has been an advisory mentor on on and off for 10 years. He believes the movement is logical and hopes it will stay. 

“I like the idea of hall decks, so everybody can see everyone else’s. I think more people in the school are seeing it,” Irwin said. “I just think it makes it more fun.”

Streamlining the door decks to the main entrance brought classes together to forge their creations while examining the development of their competition. Freshmen Briana Keingatti, however, said, the work didn’t feel competitive; rather, it was a way to meet up with other friends. 

“I like made the disco floor and stuff, and I helped them cut out the VeggieTales faces,” Keingatti said. “I liked the art part of it and being with my friends outside [of the classroom] and contribute and stuff.”

Senior James Glaser, who was in Keingatti’s class serving as advisory mentor, said he played a leadership role in planning the door deck. 

“I did a good amount in the brainstorming  process,” Glaser said. “But then afterwards my teacher kind of wanted to do a lot of actually doing it, so I got to watch the kids. 

Biology teacher Andrew Kinslow, a first time advisory teacher, was particularly proud of his advisory mentor who he said took initiative in organizing the project.

“My mentor, Will [Bowers], has been great. Our two peer tutors have helped with the group,” Kinslow said. “It’s been really fun to see this be a student-centered thing.”

Fostering a sense of school spirit and teamwork, Irwin said, is the main purpose of the door decks. He said it will leave a lasting impact on the freshmen.

“I think it helps build community that they are doing something publicly for the rest of the school,” Irwin said. “It kind of internists the fun, homecoming traditions and things like that.”

Which is your favorite door deck? Let us know in the comments below.

Gallery • 17 Photos

Harris