Panther Pride Bracelets Show Unity

Oswego High School has taken great strides throughout the years in order to ensure that everyone feels welcomed and appreciated.   This year, Panther Pride is evident on the wrists of students and staff with bright orange and blue bracelets.

OHS Principal Chris Grays recently released a statement via video for all students; this video reiterated the principles of what it means to be a Panther. Grays also explained an acronym to emphasize the Panther values: O for ownership, H for honor, and S for safety. 

During the video, which students viewed during third period classes, Grays highlighted the importance of coming together as one, growing as individuals, and encouraging others. He also discussed why bringing everyone together is important: it makes the environment a safe learning place for students and teachers. 

“When [the athletic department] came up with the idea for the 60 year and the pin and all the other pieces that we did it was our idea in athletics to have something that we felt our student body would buy into,” said Mr. Darren Howard, the OH Athletic Director. 

Building community relationships is prominent because not only does it create a safe and efficient environment for students, but it also improves the quality of student learning and helps teachers build upon their teaching. They also want students to understand that OHS is a safe environment when it comes to mental health. 

“So the idea was [the athletic department] would have something that everybody in the school could have on them to show that we were together. We really wanted to push this whole idea of ‘Panthers together’ and so regardless of where we come from, where we live, what school we went to, when we’re here we’re all Panthers,” said Howard. 

Staff were provided bright orange bracelets, and students were provided blue bracelets. Any student missing a bracelet can seek one in the OH Athletic Department Office.