Homecoming is a popular event among most students, as it is a way to break away from the stress of everyday high school classes. This year, the homecoming game was a highly anticipated match in which the Pioneers maintained their undefeated streak over Verona by a score of 21 – 10.

Among other festivities during Homecoming weekend, NPHS’s second annual Homecoming Dance took place on Thursday, October 9th. 

Called “Once Upon a Dream,” the dance was wholeheartedly designed with the help of Neer Nation, along with many PTSA volunteers who helped decorate the hallways and gym in preparation for the dance. Purple paper, flowers, lanterns, and even a 50ft Rapunzel braid aided in transforming the unadorned entry into something right out of a Disney movie.

Along with decorations, there were a photobooth, DJ, and accessory stations to help bring spirit to the dance. In addition to those activities, a variety of snacks were just outside the high school gym along with water, keeping everyone hydrated and ready to get back out there. Whether people were taking photos with their friends, dancing, or clipping in colorful hair tinsel, there was no doubt that excitement was present. 

“I actually thought there was a lot to do, most people were actively doing something from what I could tell,” said Maddy DiQuollo, secretary of Neer Nation. 

Once in a while, the DJ would get a game going, with gift card rewards. The games consisted of ‘freeze dance’, ‘limbo’, ‘head, nose, toes, cup’, and finally, a raffle at the end for a $25 dollar Chick-Fil-A giftcard. Each time a new game was announced, almost everyone got more involved, instead of just sitting on the bleachers. 

“I got out in the first round of head, nose, toes, cup,” said Ana Dubey, social coordinator of Neer Nation. 

With the help of Neer Nation and the PTSA, around 60 tickets were sold, both online and in person,  with all funds going to support Neer Nation.