By Aalia Akbarali and Miley Otobe

From an energetic pep rally to the crowning of IA’s first Homecoming Courts, Homecoming week brought excitement and school spirit to Innovation Academy. Students came together to celebrate, support their peers, and participate in festivities throughout the week.

One of this year’s biggest highlights was the introduction of the first ever Homecoming Court, with junior Sana Naveen crowned queen. Although the moment was exciting, Sana admitted she did not expect to win.

“I was just really happy, and I was kind of in disbelief because I didn’t think I was going to win,”

Her campaign was simple: connecting with her classmates and asking for their support.

“I just walked up to people and told them to vote for me,” she said. “So, I just kind of talk to people.”

Spirit Week was another highlight, with more students participating in daily themes and bringing extra energy to the school. Sophomore Vayda Jane Dicaprio believes the more engaging themes made a difference this year.

“Last year, the themes weren’t as fun, and this year, they were really fun, and a lot of people were really excited for Homecoming,”

The increased participation also encouraged students across grade levels to get involved. According to Vayda, underclassmen even asked upperclassmen for help participating, which helped boost the overall energy and school spirit.

One of Vayda’s favorite days was the television-character dress-up theme, when she and her friends dressed as Trolls.

Between the pep rally, the historic crowning, and increased student participation, this year’s Homecoming was more than a celebration. It was an opportunity for IA to strengthen its community and begin traditions that could continue for years to come.