School spirit was in the air as Nolan Middle School kicked off the fall season for sports and clubs with a community-wide pep rally under the Friday night lights. Running through banners, clubs, organizations, and sports teams were introduced one at a time to promote their 2023-2024 teams. Groups such as the Blue Diamond dance team, cheerleaders, 7th and 8th-grade volleyball, and football teams were cheered on by standing-room-only parents and fans. The newly formed band performed the National Anthem and other songs to pump up the crowd.
LeAnn Smith, Parent Liaison at Nolan MS and organizer of the pep rally, shared the importance of bringing our community and school together. 'This is only the beginning of a beautiful partnership. Our intentions are to include the community, parents, students, and staff to bring back the school and community operating with one goal in mind: unity!'
When the idea first came to fruition, Smith said she had the administration's full support. The pep rally was an important way to promote teamwork and school spirit by fostering a sense of pride for our Mustangs through positive school experiences. 'I wanted our students to know "We See YOU," "We Celebrate You," "We Support You,"' said Marylynn Gawryszewski, principal.
Showing their support for Nolan Middle School were Michael Blomquist, Mayor of Harker Heights, City Councilmember Jenn McCann, and Cullen Mills, School Board Trustee. When asked why community support is so important, Mayor Blomquist said, 'Success and happiness in our society revolve around community. I see community as one of the pillars that contribute to our collective social success in society, revolving around faith, family, friends, and community events like this Nolan Middle School Pep Rally. As the Mayor of Harker Heights, I enjoy leading and promoting events that bring people together in our community, like the administrators, teachers, parents, and students at Nolan Middle School, to celebrate and share in all the exciting sporting events and activities happening this year!
Visit the Killeen ISD Facebook page for more photos of the event.
Written by: Erin Mills
Pictures by: Justine Morales
