Templeton, CA — September 20, 2024, marked the annual Homecoming Parade in Templeton, which was followed by junior varsity and varsity football games. This year's theme, "Board Games," was chosen and organized by the Templeton High School (THS) Associated Student Body.
The parade, led by Superintendent Bond and Principal Lloyd, began at THS and made its way past cheering students at Templeton Middle School (TMS). The procession continued down Old Country Road, passing Templeton Elementary School (TES), where the youngest students in the district waved from behind black iron gates. It concluded in front of Templeton Market & Deli on Main Street, where a crowd of parents, grandparents, alumni, business owners, and judges awaited the colorful floats, each competing for top honors with themed dances and performances while tossing candies out to the crowd.
Kindergartener J.J. Hale, a proud Eagle from TES, attended the parade with his father, Justin, a school district employee. "My favorite thing to see was Monopoly," J.J. said, beaming with happiness.
Floats represented various board games, with the Freshmen showcasing "Hungry Hungry Hippo" and the Sophomores themed around "Bingo." The Juniors, adorned in vibrant "Candyland" costumes, danced atop a float covered in balloon candies. The Senior float featured "Monopoly," while the cheerleaders presented "Clue," and the Future Farmers of America (FFA) chose "Operation." The defending champions, the Link Crew, debuted "The Game of Life." Junior Evann Moore portrayed a bride on the Link Crew float, which played "Marry You" by Bruno Mars. "It took about two weeks to prepare," Moore said. "There were about 34 of us on the float. It was awesome. We are on eight years, eight years winning, hopefully going on nine of winning."
Students spent weeks preparing their floats and routines. Senior Charlie Kline, who played the groom, admitted to feeling nervous. "There were a lot of people surrounding the judges, so it definitely got the heart rate up. A lot of practice went into it, but by then, it was muscle memory."
In addition to their teaching responsibilities, many staff members volunteered countless hours to uphold this Templeton tradition. David Landers, in his 23rd year as the band director for THS and TMS, walked alongside the band, coaching musicians who performed "Rock You Like a Hurricane" by the Scorpions for the judges.
Homecoming Week is a cherished tradition that relies heavily on community support. Firefighters, police officers, parents, business owners, and school staff volunteer annually to make the event a success. "MULLAHEY Chrysler Dodge Jeep & Ram from Paso Robles donated seven brand new pickup trucks for our Homecoming Court to ride in. It was very generous," said Principal Jessica Lloyd.
During the halftime performance at the Varsity football game against West Bakersfield, the defending champions, the Link Crew “Game of Life” float was awarded, once again, first place honors.