One year after its implementation, the house system is being considered a success at Delaware Hayes High School.
At the start of last school year, Hayes High School Vice Principal Rex Reeder and other staff members divided the student body into eight houses, each with its own name, and said the houses would meet at a regular basis during school to help foster more student friendships and break up cliques.
On Oct. 5 and Oct. 6 the houses participated in one of the year’s first competitive house events, powderpuff football at Hayes Stadium. The female students of each house had seven minutes to score as many points as possible before switching sides with their opponents and defending for seven minutes. At the conclusion of both team’s drives, they had the opportunity to make three kicks on the field goal.
After the event, Reeder said it was a prime example of the inclusion that the house system fosters.
“We’re seeing more kids getting involved and not just on the field, but cheering in the stands,” Reeder said. “It’s a better community. Some of them were all fired up.”
Reeder said when the house system was first implemented, along with making students join a club that would meet twice a month, there was some push back from students.
“There’s also those who don’t like change,” Reeder said. “But now they are starting to see all the great opportunities for [them.] Heaven forbid kids look forward to coming to school.”
Hayes Principal Richard Stranges agreed with Reeder and said that even if students didn’t go to the powderpuff game to cheer on their house it got them outside so they could study or take a break from academics.
Stranges said the house system has been a success and attributed some of that success to Reeder.
“Our school culture has been enhanced in year two of the House system at Hayes, creating connections, a true sense of belonging and increased school spirit,” Stranges said. “All of this is made possible by the architect of House, Mr. Reeder and our House Deans who continue to roll out exciting academic and social opportunities for students and staff.”
Fairview House was the victorious team at the powderpuff competition. Reeder said the next event will be “wits and wagers” which will involve academics.
