Homecoming Week Checklist for Advisers
1. Confirm Event Details
- Ensure all dates and times for Homecoming events (dance, parade, pep rally, spirit days) are finalized.
- Double-check venue bookings (gym, football field, parade route, etc.) are confirmed with the necessary staff and administrators.
- Verify security arrangements and safety protocols with school administration and local authorities (if needed).
- Confirm transportation arrangements (buses, parade floats, etc.) are in place.
2. Finalize Communication with Key Stakeholders
- Ensure all staff members, chaperones, and volunteers are fully briefed on their roles and responsibilities.
- Send out reminders to parents, students, and staff about the schedule of events and expectations.
- Confirm final lists with DJ, caterer, photographer, and vendors for the dance and other events.
- Verify emergency contact information and communication channels are in place in case of any issues.
3. Finalize Spirit Week and School Activities
- Check that all spirit day themes have been communicated to students, including dress code guidelines.
- Ensure any spirit competitions (e.g., hallway decorating, class competitions) are organized, and judges have been selected.
- Verify supplies for spirit days (e.g., materials for class float building, decorating, or spirit props) are ordered and ready.
- Confirm any incentives for student participation (e.g., spirit week winners, prizes) are organized and approved.
4. Prepare for the Pep Rally
- Ensure the pep rally agenda is finalized and shared with all participants (clubs, cheerleaders, band, sports teams, etc.).
- Double-check sound equipment is set up and tested in the gym/field (microphones, speakers, etc.).
- Confirm the schedule for performances and games is organized (e.g., cheer routines, student competitions, sports team introductions).
- Verify the availability of props or equipment needed for any games or competitions.
- Communicate with the master of ceremonies or student host about their role and script.
5. Parade Planning
- Confirm the parade route and communicate it to students, staff, parents, and local authorities.
- Ensure parade floats are ready, with clear instructions for students on where and when to meet.
- Verify any permits required for the parade are in place.
- Double-check lineup order for floats and participants, and assign staff/volunteers to help with float setup.
- Confirm safety protocols, such as emergency contact numbers and first aid stations along the route.
6. Prepare for the Homecoming Dance
- Confirm ticket sales are on track, with procedures for checking in students at the door clearly defined.
- Double-check the DJ/music playlist and ensure that it aligns with school policies.
- Verify decorations are ready and that a team is assigned for setup on the day of the dance.
- Ensure chaperones are assigned to specific areas (entrance, dance floor, restrooms, etc.) and briefed on protocols.
- Confirm refreshments/catering are ordered and that the catering team has access to the venue for setup.
- Arrange a coat check area (if applicable) and assign volunteers to manage it.
- Check that the photo booth or photographer is confirmed, and arrange for a designated photo area if necessary.
7. Finalize Court and Crowning
- Ensure the Homecoming Court nominations and voting are complete, and verify the final list of court members.
- Confirm crowns, sashes, or prizes are ready for the Homecoming Court members.
- Finalize details for the crowning ceremony at the dance, pep rally, or halftime show, and communicate with the student emcee.
8. Athletic Events and Halftime Show
- Confirm details with the football team and coaches regarding game-day logistics and schedules.
- Coordinate with band directors, cheerleaders, and the Homecoming Court for their roles during the halftime show.
- Ensure sound and lighting for the halftime performance is ready.
- Verify seating arrangements for special guests (e.g., alumni, court members) and communicate arrival times.
9. Health and Safety Protocols
- Confirm emergency plans are in place and that all staff are aware of them.
- Ensure that first aid kits and medical teams are available during all major events (pep rally, parade, dance, game).
- Verify that school safety officers or local law enforcement are on-site for crowd management and security.
10. Post-Event Cleanup and Follow-Up
- Confirm cleanup crew and volunteers are assigned for post-event cleanup (dance venue, field, gym, etc.).
- Ensure that all rental equipment (tables, chairs, sound equipment) is returned or scheduled for pickup.
- Plan for a thank-you message or appreciation event for volunteers, chaperones, and staff who helped make Homecoming successful.
- Schedule a post-event debrief to review what went well and identify areas for improvement for future events.
Final Reminders
- Double-check all signage and announcements are in place for students, including any maps or directions for events.
- Ensure you have an event kit with extra supplies (tape, pens, scissors, phone chargers, walkie-talkies) on hand for emergencies.
- Get a good night’s rest and stay calm—Homecoming is a celebration for the entire school community!