The Clash of Classes is an exciting time at SJHHS. Each grade level participates in events such as schoolwide dress up days and minigames at break in a competition to earn the coveted trophy that represents the class with the most spirit.
A celebratory pep rally where entertaining videos feature each class closes off the competition. Students enjoy watching the showcase, but credit is due for the teams of ASB leaders that put in hours of work behind the scenes.
The class of 2025 spotlights several songs within their video, one alone taking nearly an hour to film. Joaquin Serrato (12) expressed great appreciation for tasks the associated student body is able to accomplish as he is a new member and witnessing their work for the first time.
“My favorite part of Clash is definitely the videos. I’ve never been able to see too much of what goes into the videos until this year. But the funny lyrics and teacher mentions in the songs are the best part of it,” said Serrato.
Actors fuel the fun, while commissioners of tech ensure that the clips flow and include special effects.
“Coming up with different shots and figuring out what we are going to do is a big part of the behind the scenes [as well as] making sure whoever is being filmed knows what they’re doing,” said Gavin Geiss (11), a second year member of ASB.
The process encompasses the whole school, featuring several SJHHS staff members alongside the students. The senior class’s video featured Math teacher, Tanislado Bracamontes, Principal, Cina Abedzadeh, and English teacher, Janey Gidion. This trio of staff members participated in a comedic karaoke battle.
“My senior students, who I have in my English classes, asked me to be in it. I was very excited because I’ve never been in the video before. My favorite part was dancing. Mr. Abedzadeh stole the show,” said Gidion.
An overarching theme is teamwork. No matter what part a student or staff member plays in production, fun always occurs behind the scenes.
“The students are so creative. They’re so funny. Sometimes they can’t sing, but it doesn’t even matter. They just go for it full force, and just seeing the joy that it brings them and the fun that they’re having is really contagious,” said Gidion.
Following the showcase, the pep rally announcers led applause for Gavin MacGregor (12) and Jared Choi (12). These editors produced impressive clips for the senior class that the audience showed great appreciation for.
The class of 2025 ultimately took the Clash of Classes trophy. However, every class left with high spirits and fond memories.
