Thornton Academy News

Homecoming 2017

“T-H-O-R-N-T-O-N.” The rallying cry shouted by every student that has ventured through the halls of our local high school institution.

This weekend is the annual tradition we all know all too well. Granted we may have experienced it in varying degrees of previous decades. Homecoming.

Seniors from the class of 2017 cheer during last year's pep rally.

Seniors from the class of 2017 cheer during last year's pep rally.  

We might remember it as a dance or as the prep rally in the gym or even the spirit week prior dressing up to match whatever theme was that particular day. But it is also a weekend for alumni. Those of us including myself who have an opportunity to re-connect with one another, reflect back on the good times we had, and look to the future of Thornton Academy and all it has to offer the next generation.

About eight years ago, I graduated from Thornton Academy. As I get closer to my 10-year reunion, it’s a natural time to reflect on the impact this school had on me in so many ways. From student council to National Honor Society, French Club, and TATV Channel 3 to name a few, I was fully immersed in the school as a student and came into my own. The education and experiences I had at TA set me on a course of discovering my true passion, finding my voice to speak out, and entering into a connected community of alumni all across the country.

That sense of community can really be felt. It’s not just a school, it’s an extended family. As TA alumni, we look out for one another. We lift each other up. It’s just what we do. Saco is strengthened by such a gem of an institution that blends the best of public and private school. I am thankful for the caring and dedicated staff and faculty that do all they can to amplify student success and empower them to reach their greatest potential. I’m a proud product of TA and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Faculty compete in the annual tug-of-war against the Class of 2017.

Faculty compete in the annual tug-of-war against the Class of 2017.

 

This weekend TA is hosting homecoming weekend with a number of great activities and events.

On Friday there is a community bonfire from 6:30 to 9 p.m. with free admission. On Saturday there is the Athletic Hall of Fame Ceremony on the alumni house lawn from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. One of my favorites is the homecoming parade down Main Street at noon. It goes from Pepperell Square to Hill Stadium. Be sure to look out for me as I’ll be marching in it. Each class will also have their stylized float. You don’t want to miss it. It all culminates in the annual homecoming game at 1:30 p.m.

 

The Thornton community celebrates the newest inductees in the Athletic Hall of Fame. 

The Thornton community celebrates the newest inductees in the Athletic Hall of Fame. 

As another way of giving back, TA is donating a portion of game ticket proceeds at the gate to disaster relief efforts to those impacted by the recent severe hurricanes.

It’ll be a great weekend to celebrate Thornton Academy, our next generation, and our strong sense of community.