May 2023 – Houston High School hosted Future Mustangs Day for 7th grade students from Houston Middle School and Riverdale. Students arrived and were welcomed by the HHS pom team, cheerleaders, band, Mustang Mob, athletes, and the mascot! When they entered the gym, they were then able to find their group. Seventh grade students had been divided based on their interests, and the groups ranged from interests in theater, to health sciences, to students who like both marching band and mechatronics, and so much more. With unique group names like “Marching Mechatronics,” “Wellness Whinnies,” and “Global Gallopers,” students were excited to get to the day started.
After the pep rally, where the marching band, pom, and cheer performed, students then went on to explore different sessions that would most interest them as they begin thinking about going to Houston High School. Some of the sessions included Orchestra, CSI, Humanities, Theater, Foreign Language, Tech, Horticulture, and more. At the club fair, seventh grade students got to engage with high school students from all different clubs and athletic opportunities. They also were able to jump in the 360 photo booth to create a memory with their new friends! These opportunities allow them to explore what they might want to do during their high school years, and it can motivate them to think more about their future as they head into their eighth grade year.
Students finished their day at Houston High with a picnic on the football field, and then a game show with Mr. Manuel. By the end of the day, it was clear to see that students had been able to bond with one another and had learned about the Houston High School experience. Mr. Manuel also shared with students that high school is the time to explore all of your interests, saying, “Don’t put yourself in one box. Don’t label yourself as just an athlete or a choir member. Houston is the place to be a member of the Dr. Pepper club, a STEM student, and a football player.” Students were excited to learn about all of their opportunities, and we can’t wait to see the Future Mustangs as the class of 2028 at Houston High School!