Homecoming festivities are back at Plano West as everyone prepares for the annual Homecoming game and dance on Oct. 21 & 22. Here’s everything you need to know to take advantage of this exciting week.

On Monday, Homecoming court finalists were decided for both grades on the morning announcements. For Homecoming Queen, Katelynn Ruhman, Gentry Grant, Sara Salazer, Crystal Shen, and Bertha Mkwawa earned a spot, while Ty Lam, Jaden Vo, Johnnie Ingram, Rishab Sijjan, and Walker Blackwell earned Homecoming King nominations. To vote, click this link. Voting ends Thursday and results will be announced during the football game Friday, October 21.

“I was ecstatic to hear that I was voted on my senior year. The entire process is super fun, and I love being able to represent Plano West Volleyball at Hoco celebrations,” said senior nominee Katelyn Ruhman.

On Tuesday, Plano West Volleyball celebrates Senior Night for five graduating seniors: Ansley Denison, Brooke Bowers, Katelynn Ruhman, Darci Pickel, and Blaire Bayless, as they face Plano East for their 12th district match. The recognition ceremony will take place before the varsity match at 6:30 pm.

“I’ve only known these seniors for two years but it feels like it’s been a lifetime. The positive mindset and fun spirit they bring to practice every day is infectious. I could not be more proud of all they have accomplished and look forward to seeing what their future holds,” said Coach Paiz, assistant coach to the varsity team.

On Wednesday, Oct. 19, Plano West hosts two large community events: a blackout pep rally during second-period classes and a homecoming parade with an additional pep rally after for community members. This parade will include each elementary, middle, and high school that feeds into Plano West and over 30 customized floats.

The parade kicks off at Brinker Elementary around 6:30 and ends at Willow Bend Drive by the Plano West competition gym. Students and families are encouraged to attend the parade and pep rally afterward.

On Thursday, Oct. 20, food trucks like Panda Express, Fat Straws, Kona Ice, Chick-fil-A, and LaRosita Tacos will be parked in the Plano West courtyard during both lunches for students to purchase lunch and support local businesses.

“I love having different food options on campus, and a big plus is saving gas money,” said senior, Kala Komanduri.

On Friday, Oct. 21, students are encouraged to wear Plano West attire and celebrate the varsity football team as they compete against Plano East Football. Kickoff is at 7 pm at Clark Stadium, and Homecoming court decisions will be announced both before kickoff and during the halftime show. Tickets can be found through this link.

Saturday, Oct. 22, marks the end of Homecoming week, with the Homecoming dance happening between 9-12 pm inside the cafeteria. This year’s theme, voted by the students, is “Hit the Lights” and will feature neon/disco decorations. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased through this link with your student ID as the passcode. You can also pay $30 cash at the door.