Students, faculty and staff fled to the baseball field last Thursday for the recommencement of the annual CCHS Stampede.
“I think it is a great experience to get out of [seventh] period… and just to have fun,” junior Mark Fontana said.
Featuring obstacle courses, games, raffles and food from many local restaurants, the Stampede lasted from seventh period until the end of B lunch, giving students plenty of time to have fun outside of the classroom.
“I did about every bounce house they have got here,” Fontana said. “And I had some really good tacos, some hot dogs… it is a lot of fun.”
The event was retired at Cooper City High for years, but was nonetheless impressive in its turnout. With over 600 students in attendance, it was as successful as it was entertaining.
“They just want the kids to have fun and build up the school spirit,” Assistant Principal Vera Perkovic said. “It looks awesome, it is very well-organized and the students are enjoying it.”
Hosted by the Parent, Teacher and Student Association (PTSA), the Stampede was put together as a fundraising event. Members from all over Cooper City were present to show their support toward this association.
“I think [PTSA is] a valuable organization, and this is a great event for the kids and the PTSA,” Broward County School Board member Robin Bartleman said. “So I wanted to come out and show my support.”
With the sun out for most of the day, the event’s outdoor setting gave the students an enjoyable surrounding to spend their school day in while alleviating their stress.
“It was a great way to hang out with friends that you normally only see inside the classroom,” senior Dakota Rossi said. “I thought it was really fun.”
Aside from the attractions entertaining the students, the event held a deep significance. Allowing Cooper City citizens and volunteers alike to participate, the Stampede worked to further establish a sense of community.
“All the parents, all the students, we have the commisioner out here, all the volunteers… it is just a great event bringing everybody together,” Bartleman said. “We need events like this where you get to have fun and enjoy yourself.”
The Stampede proved to be an overall success, giving students some time to have fun while supporting the parents’ organization. This event will undoubtedly be rewarding in the future years of CCHS.
Photo by Casey Chapter
