What's recently happened?
Tri-Township High School (TTHS) celebrated Homecoming 2024 with the enchanting theme “Disney in the Dark!” Organized by the TTHS Student Council and supported by sponsors Tori Lantz and Renaee Warren, the week was packed with themed dress-up days, spirited competitions, a lively pep rally, and an unforgettable dance.
Students showcased their creativity and school pride with themed dress-up days:
- Monday: Character Day
- Tuesday: Babies vs. Seniors
- Wednesday: USA Day
- Thursday: Barbecue Dad vs. Soccer Mom
- Friday: Class Colors, featuring seniors in neon pink, juniors in neon yellow, sophomores in neon purple, and freshmen in neon blue.
Fun activities for students also helped lead up to the hype of the big day.
Banner Painting: Each class selected a Disney-themed concept for banner painting sessions hosted by student volunteers. Themes included:
- Freshmen: “Cars”
- Sophomores: “The Jungle Book”
- Juniors: “Aladdin”
- Seniors: “Alice in Wonderland”
The Junior Class triumphed with their “Aladdin” themed banner.
A new addition this year, the Pep Rally mat decorating contest featured vibrant class colors and creativity. The senior class claimed victory with its neon pink design, incorporating “Alice in Wonderland” and Minnie Mouse elements.
TTHS kicked off Homecoming 2024 with a spirited Pep Rally themed “Disney in the Dark.” The gym buzzed with excitement as students and staff celebrated Tiger Pride ahead of the big night.
The rally showcased stellar performances by the Varsity Cheer Squad, led by Captain Caloe Peretti, and the Varsity Dance Team, captained by Kennedy Cox. The crowd cheered as the Girls Varsity Basketball Team and the Boys Varsity Basketball Team were introduced.
Exciting competitions, including a 3-point shootout and interactive games like Heads or Tails and Balloon Pop, had everyone engaged. The 2024 Homecoming Court was also revealed, adding anticipation for the crowning ceremony during the evening’s game.
The Homecoming Court proudly represented their classes:
- Freshman Class: Xavier Davis and Callie Minton
- Sophomore Class: Kirstyn Dailey and Chance Ringle; Gianna Daich and Kyle Huhnke
- Junior Class: Addison Hendrixson and Cody Vernich; Lupita Osornio and Austin Denham; Riley Schultz and Kaleb Gorski
- Senior Class: Taylor Tarter and Chayse Boomfield; Caloe Peretti and Lucas Kaiser; Jayde Pryor and Kade Koselke; Sydney Hudson and Dillon Stewart
Crown Bearers, chosen by second-grade teacher Stephanie Davis, were Cora McMahon and Hunter Lidga. Gorski and Osornio were crowned Prince and Princess, while Boomfield and Pryor took the titles of King and Queen.
In the TTHS Homecoming games, the Girls Varsity team fell to the Westville High School Blackhawks, 34-61, and the Boys Varsity Tigers were defeated 36-51.
Despite the setbacks, athletes Bryleigh Rust (#40), Kade Koselke (#21), and Chayse Boomfield (#22) received IHSAA Exemplary Behavior Reports for their outstanding sportsmanship, composure, and professionalism.
The week concluded with the Homecoming Dance on Saturday, December 7. Students dressed to impress, bringing excitement to the dance floor. TTHS Student Council Sponsor Renaee Warren doubled as DJ, curating an electric playlist that kept the energy high. Decorations prepared earlier by Student Council members added a touch of magic, leaving attendees in awe.
Tri-Township High School’s Homecoming 2024 was a vibrant celebration of school spirit, camaraderie, and creativity, creating cherished memories for all.
What’s coming up?
Winter break begins next week. TTHS is hosting many basketball games over the break and into the new year.
The Girls Varsity Tigers now hold a record of 5-3, with Pryor just three points away from reaching 1,000 career points. The Boys Varsity Tigers stand at 1-2.
Both teams will play Friday, December 13, at Hebron High School and Saturday, December 14, against North White High School at the Tiger Den.
Staff spotlight:
Dara Guse, Tri-Township’s Corporation Treasurer, is a cornerstone of the Tiger family, with 20 years of dedication to the school.
Guse joined TTHS in 2004 as a deputy treasurer, later becoming assistant treasurer, and now serves as treasurer, a role she’s held for four years. She manages school finances, payroll, and human resources.
“I’m proud to be a Tiger because we’re a family,” Guse said. “We have a small-school atmosphere with caring teachers, staff, and students I love seeing every day.”
Her office reflects her welcoming personality, adorned with vintage farmhouses and seasonal décor. Outside of work, Guse actively contributes to the community as a Lions Club member, founder of the Scarecrow Committee’s Cutest Baby Contest, finance secretary for her church council, and trustee of Cass Township.
Guse’s ties to the school run deep—her children, Ryan (Class of 2011) and Taylor (Class of 2013), are proud TTHS graduates.
“This school truly has my heart,” Guse said. “The students are like my own, and the staff is incredible. We treat students like family, and I want parents to feel confident sending their kids here.”
From cheering at the Tiger Den to making an impact in the community, Guse embodies the true spirit of a Tiger.
Student spotlight:
Sophomore Kyle Huhnke exemplifies Tiger pride through his active participation in athletics and leadership roles.
Kyle is a multi-sport athlete, participating in basketball, volleyball, baseball, and cross country.
“I play sports because I like hanging with my friends and being competitive,” he said.
Beyond athletics, Huhnke is involved in Leo’s Club and the Student Council, which he appreciates for its focus on community involvement.
Kyle’s favorite teacher is Sam Weller, his gym teacher, and it’s no surprise that gym is his favorite class.
“Gym lets me stay active, connect with friends, and have fun,” he said.
Huhnke takes pride in the sense of community at TTHS.
“We’re like a family here,” he said.
After graduation, Huhnke plans to work and build a bright future.