Shaler Area School District holds annual Homecoming celebration

The Shaler Area School District held its Homecoming parade, game and dance on Sept. 24.

The day began early Saturday morning with the annual Homecoming parade, which is always a big hit for students, parents and residents of all ages. This year’s theme was the United States of America.

Floats decked out in red, white and blue interspersed throughout the parade, along with the Shaler Area Fightin’ Titan Marching Band, school majorettes and alumni groups, emergency vehicles and different school clubs and sports teams.

Competitions were held for various float categories. First place went to the sophomore float, winning by less than 5 points over their closest competitor, the senior class float, followed by the float by performing arts.

After the parade, the Shaler Titan football team took on Franklin Park, and after a long game that included two overtime periods, Shaler came out on top with a score of 42-41.

Homecoming king went to Chris Mendoza, who represented the sophomores and their award-winning float.

The day of celebrating came to a close with the annual homecoming dance, which for the first time since the pandemic was held indoors.

“Homecoming is a very special day in the Shaler Area School District,” said superintendent Dr. Sean Aiken. “This year’s Homecoming was no exception, and the perfect fall weather attracted one of the largest crowds of community members in recent years.”