Valerie Davoodzadeh
Writer '19
Writer '19
Every year, Great Neck North High School hosts an entertaining, competitive, and spirited event called Battle of the Classes. Prior to Battle, students from each grade sign up to take part in the event, and those who make it are determined at random. The event takes place in the school’s gymnasium, where there are sport related activities, relay races, and a dance produced by each grade’s participants. Students contribute numerous hours into making all activities a success.
Some may be curious as to how the students prepare for this particular night, to appear organized. The week of battle, students put in countless hours each day after school, as well as choreographers and artists who give up the majority of their February vacation to prepare for the upcoming night and create outstanding artwork. Junior Shiron Shaoulpour, a past participant of Battle was asked about affected academic grades due to the exhausting week. He says, “Yes, the grades that you receive in school can be affected, because there is a lot of time that you need to put in while you are in school for practice.” As demonstrated, Battle is a big commitment that students need to consider before making the decision to participate. However, the hard work becomes rewarding.
Unfortunately, Battle is not spoken of enough. It is not one of the hot topics floating around the school. Students who are not participants come to watch as they do not want to miss out on the excitement. These students do contribute to the high spirits and excitement in the gymnasium. Sophomore Liat Cohen, a participant was asked if Battle is overrated or not talked about enough. She says “I don't think Battle is talked about enough but I believe it should because it shows the unity of each grade and the school as a whole. Each grade comes together and works together to win. The grade cooperating as one is the key to success to Battle.” Her view is understandable, seeing that Battle brings enthusiasm and eagerness to the school, and is something that each school outside of the district may want to consider as a possible event.
This one of a kind night is characterized by cheerfulness and spirit. The crowd on the bleachers has family and friends jumping out of seats for a better view, and consistent screaming as a method of support. Sophomore Alan Chau, a participant of Battle and member of his class office was asked if anything can be done to include the roaring crowd in activities. He says “I don't particularly like the idea of including the audience in battle events. Battle is a game against classes. Any outside interference would take away from the event.”
Some may be curious as to how the students prepare for this particular night, to appear organized. The week of battle, students put in countless hours each day after school, as well as choreographers and artists who give up the majority of their February vacation to prepare for the upcoming night and create outstanding artwork. Junior Shiron Shaoulpour, a past participant of Battle was asked about affected academic grades due to the exhausting week. He says, “Yes, the grades that you receive in school can be affected, because there is a lot of time that you need to put in while you are in school for practice.” As demonstrated, Battle is a big commitment that students need to consider before making the decision to participate. However, the hard work becomes rewarding.
Unfortunately, Battle is not spoken of enough. It is not one of the hot topics floating around the school. Students who are not participants come to watch as they do not want to miss out on the excitement. These students do contribute to the high spirits and excitement in the gymnasium. Sophomore Liat Cohen, a participant was asked if Battle is overrated or not talked about enough. She says “I don't think Battle is talked about enough but I believe it should because it shows the unity of each grade and the school as a whole. Each grade comes together and works together to win. The grade cooperating as one is the key to success to Battle.” Her view is understandable, seeing that Battle brings enthusiasm and eagerness to the school, and is something that each school outside of the district may want to consider as a possible event.
This one of a kind night is characterized by cheerfulness and spirit. The crowd on the bleachers has family and friends jumping out of seats for a better view, and consistent screaming as a method of support. Sophomore Alan Chau, a participant of Battle and member of his class office was asked if anything can be done to include the roaring crowd in activities. He says “I don't particularly like the idea of including the audience in battle events. Battle is a game against classes. Any outside interference would take away from the event.”