Warrior Word

by Sara Retta

Winter break is a much anticipated time for the students of Edmonds Woodway but the week leading up to the two-week break, known as Winter Wishes week, is arguably just as exciting and enjoyable. Or at the very least, something to keep the student body satiated until the much needed break. The student council director, Ms Bianco, as well as the student leadership for each respective grade, work tirelessly during the weeks leading up to, and during Winter Wishes to make it magical, exciting, and inclusive for all students. The festivities include decking the halls of Edmonds Woodway in vibrant, holiday themed decor, handcrafted by student volunteers and ASB, as well as writing the names of every single student on their own holiday themed cutout and taping them all along the halls. This makes for a unique sort of scavenger hunt, a task students take up with joy every year. 

On top of all of that, each day of Winter Wishes Week also has a designated dress-up theme. Monday’s theme was Snowed In + Bring Your Own Mug Day, Tuesday’s was Ugly Sweater Day, Wednesday’s was Flannel, Thursday’s was White-Out, and lastly Friday’s was Winter Vacation. Every year, students eagerly engage in dress-up, whether this means coming into school decked out in the most lavish sleep wear, or donning the most egregious holiday themed sweater during 2nd period.

The festivities climaxed in our annual Winter Wishes assembly, on Thursday in the gym. Students were dazzled by the gym’s gorgeous, winter themed decorations. A generous portion of students wore white, a fact that was particularly noticeable once you saw the bleachers during the assembly.

Just like all EWHS spirit assemblies, students were entertained by events and games, with some being expected and some coming as a total surprise. We started off with a beautiful rendition of the Star Spangled Banner, delivered by the choir. Then the grades competed in a round of Finish the Lyric, a game familiar to all EWHS students. With the help of an absurdly large inflated dice, the grades competed to see which class would finish the lyric to a song the loudest.

A great effort was given from all, but the seniors snagged an earsplitting win. Mr. Elsener and two seniors then dazzled the crowd with a cover of David Bowie’s, “Under Pressure,” a song that’s nostalgic and festive enough to match the holiday atmosphere. The winter sports captains were introduced and competed in a round of stacking cardboard presents as they raced across the gym.

The crowd reached an unprecedented volume as ASB officers brought up various staff for a dunking. Mr. Wellington, Ms. Bianco, and Ms. Villar were among the soaking victims. The students were given an opportunity to be involved in the action during a round of musical chairs, with an athletic twist. 

Overall, this year’s Winter Wishes week was one of festivity, holiday spirit, and fun. These last weeks were a blast for students and staff, but I think we can confidently say we’re all overjoyed with both the Winter Wishes week, and the winter break. Happy holidays, EWHS and see you next year!