The annual Homecoming dance is one of the most anticipated events at Sunlake High School, and many students, staff, and families look forward to the exhilarating atmosphere of the week.  The theme for Homecoming 2024 was Seahawks at Sea, and throughout the week students were surrounded with a tropical ambience as they took part in the various activities happening around school. Leading up to the dance, students had the opportunity to participate in a daily morning parade where they gathered with other students in their class and showcased the outfit that they wore to match the selected theme. To conclude each morning, two winners were selected for their unique and creative outfits. At the beginning of the week, girls were able to sprint up and down the field at Sunlake Stadium in the annual Powderpuff flag football game, where their families gathered and watched them as well as a wonderful halftime performance from powderpuff cheerleaders. In the middle of the week, each class performed a skit that left the audience with a smile, some laughs, and lots of tears for the Seniors that will soon graduate at the end of the school year. On Friday the Sunlake football team took to the field against the Gulf High School Buccaneers and gave it everything they had, but unfortunately walked away with a loss. However, at halftime the Homecoming Court was able to walk down the middle of the field in front of their fellow classmates, friends, and ceremony on a beautiful night.

Homecoming day is very busy as many people prepare for the dance that will take place later that night. Lots of time is spent preparing for the dance as students get ready and meet up with their friends to take photos and possibly eat out at a restaurant before heading to the homecoming dance. Sophomore, Gemma Parker prepared by meeting up with her friends Makenzie Nickerson, Kallie Scepkowski, and Callie Trussler to get ready. Gemma wore a gorgeous yellow dress because it was her favorite color, and she did her hair and makeup and made TikTok’s with her friends. Gemma went to homecoming with her boyfriend Angel Rodriquez Martinez and took photos with him and her friends before the dance. Later that evening, they arrived at the dance alongside many other students. Gemma brought a digital camera to the dance and captured memories with her friends she exclaimed that, “I got a couple of my friends in one moment and took a picture of us together.” Overall, the dance was absolutely full of socialization, and students danced their hearts out, had a fun time with their classmates, and created memories that would last a lifetime.