Following several canceled parades, Niles West’s first full Homecoming Parade takes place at middle schools for the first time since 2018. The parade will take place during the school day on Friday, Sep. 23.

The parade this year is called “Homecoming Hometown Tour” and a group of students will be visiting four sender middle schools to spread Niles West School spirit. West wants the whole community to get excited about Homecoming, the assembly, and the parade.

“I am excited to have the opportunity to help the kids at those schools, so they can learn about all the activities we have to offer here at West,” senior Matthew Phillip said.

Each athletic coach and activity sponsor was able to nominate one senior (Also known as a Homecoming Hero) to represent their group on the Homecoming Hometown Tour. The Homecoming Heroes exemplify the Wolfpack Mentality. Also, the drumline and cheerleaders are participating. On Friday, the Homecoming Heros, athletic coaches, and activity sponsors will visit some of the Little 9 Schools. Culver, Lincoln Hall, and Fairview South are where they will be heading in the morning, and then they will go to Lincoln Junior High before heading back for the pep assembly.

One of the cheerleaders attending the Homecoming Hometown Tour is very excited to participate. “I feel honored to be able to have the chance to represent cheer to all of the middle schools and inspire kids to join. I have made so many friends through cheer, and want to show the real aspect of high school cheer. I am thrilled to go to my middle school and see all my old teachers, and represent my sport,” sophomore Michelle Martcheva said.

The drumline and cheerleaders have prepared routines for the homecoming festivities. The sponsors and coaches took the time to nominate a student, and the middle school principals have been very helpful in helping coordinate times.

To get ready for the parade, the staff is encouraging everyone to wear Niles West High School spirit. They want to show how unified our community is to all of the middle schools.

“We are all really excited for this event and to represent Niles West High School in a positive light outside of the building!” Student Activities Director Sarah Struebing said.

Staff and students are delighted to see the outcome of this new parade idea. Homecoming Hometown Tour is something many look forward to.