Marching Spartans Take on MetLife!

Marching Spartans Take on Met Life!

-by Jack Lopez/ Oracle Staff

10/22/2025

For months, the Sparta High School Marching Band has been working nonstop on their London Calling show, a musical journey inspired by the sights and sounds of London. Under the direction of Mr. Lopez, the band spent early mornings, late nights, and countless rehearsals perfecting every note, step, and formation. Their dedication, energy, and teamwork have defined this season from the very beginning.

The band’s hard work culminated in an unforgettable experience at MetLife Stadium. After a short drive to the stadium, the students were struck by the sheer size of the venue. Warming up in the spacious parking lot gave the band room to prepare in a way they were not used to, and the wide-open space added an extra thrill to the day. As they moved to the area just before the players’ entrance, the band took in the stadium’s enormity and anticipation built for the upcoming performance.

Once on the field, the Marching Spartans delivered a performance full of precision, spirit, and pride. Playing in such a professional venue offered the band a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase months of hard work to an enthusiastic audience of supporters and fellow musicians. Following their performance, the band returned to the stadium for awards and earned an impressive second place out of eight bands, capping off an extraordinary day.

The experience at MetLife Stadium was more than just a competition—it highlighted how far the Marching Spartans have come since the first day of band camp. Their performance demonstrated the values of perseverance, collaboration, and school pride. As the season continues, the lessons learned on that huge field will stay with the ensemble, proving that with dedication and heart, the Spartans can perform anywhere.

(photos by Mr. Andrew Lopez)

Reading with Jeter: A Pawsitive New Chapter in the Library

 Reading with Jeter: A Pawsitive New Chapter in the Library

10/21/2025

- The Oracle Staff

There’s a new reading buddy at Sparta High School-and he has four legs and a wagging tail! This fall, Mrs. Kithcart and Mrs. Walsh’s classes have launched a heartwarming reading initiative in the school library: Reading with Jeter , one of our School Counseling dogs.

Twice a week, students gather in the library to share a novel together, building both literacy skills and a love for reading in a supportive, community-focused setting. Their first book of the school year is The Adventures of Jelly Bean by Amy Meislin Pollack—a story full of warmth, imagination, and heart. To make the experience even more special, the author herself sent a personally autographed copy of the book to the students of Sparta High School.

As the classes read and listen to the story, they’ll also have the opportunity to read to Jeter when he’s able to join them. His visits add a special “bark” to the experience—students love reading aloud to him, practicing fluency and expression in a calm, friendly environment.

With the occasional encouragement of their canine companion,  reading time has transformed into something students look forward to each week. The laughter, discussion, and wagging tail remind everyone that reading can be both educational and deeply enjoyable.

With The Adventures of Jelly Bean setting the tone for the year, Reading with Jeter is already proving that sometimes the best reading partners come with fur and a friendly smile.

Sparta Week of Respect

 

Sparta High School Celebrates Week of Respect: October 6–10

-Oracle Staff

10/6/2025

Sparta High School will celebrate the Week of Respect (October 6–10)—an annual statewide initiative that promotes a positive school climate, encourages social and emotional learning, and raises awareness about bullying prevention.

Throughout the week, students and staff are invited to participate in Spirit Day themes that highlight kindness, empathy, and inclusion. These daily themes are designed to inspire everyone to treat others with respect and to build a culture of care within the school community.

As part of the celebration, all are encouraged to “Be the ‘I’ in KIND” by visiting the display in front of the MRC. Take the Kindness Pledge, snap a picture as the “I” in KIND, and post it on social media—don’t forget to tag @shs_climate and @spartahsstudentcouncil to spread the message of positivity across our community.

For planning purposes, please note that 9th and 10th grade students will attend a Week of Respect Assembly on Friday, October 10 at 9:00 a.m. in the Auditorium.

Together, let’s make this Week of Respect a reminder that even the smallest act of kindness can make a big difference.

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