Packed hallways, hundreds of students and upbeat music flowing through the school characterize football Friday class changes at Homewood High. Starting officially last year, principal Dr. Joel Henneke decided playing music that pertains to the dress-up theme during each class change would be an enjoyable addition to the day.

Henneke says that while he can’t take away the academics, he’s always trying to find new things to implement that make school more enjoyable for students. When the thought of music during class change for special occasions came to mind, he thought that it would be a perfect way to add to school spirit without interrupting academics.

“Some dress-up days are a little bit easier to find songs,” Henneke said. “I do try to find something that reinforces or complements the theme. It’s just about school spirit, about connectedness and community, it’s like another layer to help that along a little bit.”

Henneke says that when we do have dress-up days that are more difficult to find well-fit tunes, such as the upcoming country club day, he takes inspiration from his own children, Homewood students, and even other faculty members.

“I have some faculty who say that they like it when I play the older stuff too,” Henneke said. “So I try to make a balance that doesn’t annoy people.” 

He tries to maintain awareness of people in the school who don’t particularly enjoy the upbeat music choices or people who have specific preferences.

There are certain occasions separate from football Fridays that Henneke says are deserving of music during class change, such as when a prominent artist like Harry Styles or Taylor Swift releases a new album. He knows the majority of students get excited about their favorite artists, and that if he can increase the quality of their school day by playing the new tunes during class change, he will.

Chemistry teacher Jenny Firth is a fan of music playing in the hallways but also uses her teacher perspective to take into consideration her students.

 “I love the music between classes,” Firth said. “But I wish that there was a way that it could only be playing in the hallways and not in the rooms. That’s not Henneke’s or anyone else’s fault, but on test days it can be distracting for kids who get super stressed and need a quiet environment and extra time. I’m all for it in the hallways, in fact, I say play it in the hallways every day.”

Firth agrees that the music is an enjoyable addition to the atmosphere on football Fridays and that she loves seeing her students in high spirits between class changes. 

“I remember that first football game of this season,” Firth said. “It was Jersey John Carroll, everybody was dressed up and I walked through the media center during class change. I looked up and it felt like I was in High School Musical. It felt like somebody was about to bust out in a group dance in the middle of the media center.”

Firth’s observation sums up the general ambiance class change music creates, thanks to Henneke. 

Student Madeline Maxwell agrees and believes that the music during class change helps foster a positive environment throughout the school, as well as getting everyone even more pumped for game days, including herself.

Henneke’s commitment to school spirit and student engagement is apparent through his actions, including his dedication to dressing up on these days.