Cheers, candy, and bursts of orange and blue filled downtown Oswego on Sept. 28 as OH students, staff, and community members gathered for the annual Homecoming Parade. The event began at Oswego High School and traveled through downtown Oswego, drawing families, alumni, and fans eager to celebrate Panther pride.
Organized by the OH Student Council, the parade featured colorful floats representing sports teams, clubs, and community groups. For many, the event was more than just a celebration—it was a connection between students and the large Oswego community.
Senior Sahar Zaheer, an OH Student Council board member, said the planning process involved reaching out to every club and activity on campus. “It’s about bringing everyone together,” Zaheer said. “We want every student to feel included and recognized. Seeing families and friends support us. It’s what makes OH special.”
Fellow senior Student Council member Roa Harb shared a similar sentiment, saying she enjoys seeing the community bond during the parade. “It’s meaningful knowing how much this event brings people together,” Harb said with a smile. “It makes me feel connected and proud to be part of OH.”
Among the many student groups that participated, the varsity girls’ volleyball team’s float showcased orange and blue streamers, matching shirts, and plenty of candy. Seniors Kimmie Reichard and Renee Eggers said preparing their float was both chaotic and fun.
“It was a bit crazy getting the trailer and materials together, but once we were on the float, it turned into a big team bonding moment,” Reichard said, laughing.
Eggers added, “We worked together, threw candy, and had fun seeing the kids cheer. It really shows what school spirit is all about.”
Both agreed that the experience deepened their team connection. “We’re stuck on the float together for an hour. It’s impossible not to have fun,” Reichard said. Eggers called the event a “community moment,” adding that the music, laughter, and orange-and-blue pride “show what OH is all about.”
Ensuring everyone could celebrate safely was the job of Officer Behr Pfizenmaier, OH’s school resource officer, who helped coordinate police coverage throughout the route.
“We had officers stationed at intersections, walking the area, and even a drone overhead,” Pfizenmaier said. “Our main goal is making sure everyone can participate and feel safe while having fun.”
He noted that the parade’s popularity reflects the strong relationship between the school and the community. “Before the parade even started, the sidewalks were packed with families,” Pfizenmaier said. “It shows how much the community values supporting the high school.”
For senior Melanie Imbronjev, the day carried extra meaning. “When I was younger, I used to watch the parade and dream of being in it,” she said, smiling. “Now I’m here with my classmates, showing future students what OH has to offer. It really brings everything full circle.”
As the final floats rolled past and music faded, one message lingered: school pride, connection, and celebration continue to define the heart of OH’s Homecoming tradition. And as the last streamers fluttered to the ground and the candy wrappers were swept away, students and families felt the Panther pride.
“It’s not just a parade,” Harb said. “It’s a reminder that OH is one big family. And today, the whole town felt that.”
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