At Cathedral, school spirit isn’t just about showing up for sports games or sporting our school colors, it’s a vital part of what makes our campus feel like home. When students come together to show pride in their school, they create an atmosphere of unity, respect, and belonging that strengthens the entire community.
From the classrooms to the hallways, a positive school spirit fosters connections between students and teachers, boosts energy, and emphasizes that school is an environment where every student can thrive. As we look to build a culture of inclusivity and support, it is clear that school spirit is not just an accessory but instead the foundation of a positive campus culture.
School spirit plays a large role in creating a supportive and encouraging environment for both students and athletes. When students come together to cheer on teams, participate in spirit weeks, or wear school colors, they develop a sense of pride and unity that extends beyond individual interests.
Varsity Cheer Coach Shandy Carlson speaks on school spirit and states, “Every athlete and student contributes their gifts and excellence to their teams and classes, which make our school an incredible place. Our Dons’ spirit is generated any time we amplify the strengths of our programs.” Coach Carlson emphasizes that the collective contribution and strengths of students and athletes create a vibrant sense of school spirit, making the school and all its programs thrive.
All sports and academic teams deserve to be celebrated. Lately, school spirit has been on a decline and we are seeing fewer students embody Cathedral’s school spirit. This is interesting because having school spirit is proven to have several individual benefits.
According to The Connecticut Association of Schools, “They [students] perform better academically, are more socially and civically engaged, and are happier in general than their less-spirited peers. School spirit allows students to fully immerse themselves in the “high school” experience. Cheering on friends, winning that state championship, and breaking records are experiences that you only experience once.
ASB’s social media captain Gianna Ingram ‘26 explains that “ASB wants students to have pride for our school and love where they go to school so we build that sense of community.”
As we move forward, it is important to recognize the power that each student holds in shaping the school community. Whether it’s by showing up to a game, participating in a spirit day, or encouraging a friend, every small act of school spirit contributes to the larger culture of Cathedral.
Retired CCHS employee Maria Oliver, who has watched Cathedral’s school spirit evolve over the years, leaves students with some words of wisdom: “Enjoy these games and attend everything you can. It’s the best time of your life. Live in these moments and support your peers because you never know where you will all end up.”
