On Nov. 24, 1964, Imua ‘Iolani staff published, “Reminiscing Activities of the First Quarter” a lighthearted recount of major events from the beginning of the 1964-65 school year. Getting a glimpse of the past through archives reveals how student traditions and activities have evolved, yet school spirit and our One Team community remain everlasting. Written by Henry Soon ’65, the article captures the excitement of the first quarter with the Rocket Club launching their first rocket in two years, the juniors tackling the PSAT, and the lively homecoming celebrations. After the first day of school, Soon jokes, “The day was long, too long, but many promised themselves that they would start the year off right, and stayed up till 12:30 to finish their homework! This admirable intention lasted just about two and a half days.” During Autumn in recent years, ‘Iolani students engage in activities such as Big/Little Sibling, the Fall Play, homecoming festivities, and sports games. Kelsey Ring ’27 excitedly expresses, “My favorite part of the first quarter is Ho’olaule’a because I get to participate in the performance.”
While the Burning of the I, homecoming football game, and the dance are festivities we still enjoy today, parades and float building were activities unique to the past. In the 1960s ‘Iolani students exhibited their class rivalry by competing in putting up and defacing posters around campus. In addition to this, classes would build floats and perform entire grade-level skits on the football field. Since then, friendly competition has evolved with classes competing in Cheerfest since 2001 and LipSync. Mr. Kirk Uejio ’98, SAO director from 2004-15 states, “I think the current SAO has done a great job of making it more about the fun and spirit rather than who wins or loses.”
The homecoming football game remains the highlight of the well-anticipated week of festivities. In the 1960s, ‘Iolani’s social culture revolved around Friday night football games. Coach Wendell Look ’78 recalls, “If there was a football game on Friday night, there was nothing else going on, and everybody went to the football game.” These games were the highlight of the evening and brought the community together. While football still holds a special place at ‘Iolani, over time students’ focus on fall activities has expanded. Mr. Uejio explains, “Back in the day, the school had very few sports…there was no social media or phones, not as many clubs, no Sullivan Center, so the football games were THE place to be to hang out, be with friends, and support your school.” The spotlight in the fall has shifted from football games to a variety of interests including orchestra concerts, dance performances, and school plays. Recently, there are also more opportunities in athletics. The inclusion of girls to the school and sports in 1979 have led to more diversified opportunities. With so much going on during the first quarter, football is no longer the sole focus in the Fall.
Although some traditions have evolved and some have been replaced, student pride and spirit in the ‘Iolani community has remained the same. Mr. Uejio states, “Yes, we’ve accomplished a lot, which helps create school spirit as well, but it’s about the positive relationships. That seems to be the consistent thread through it all.” Whether it’s through cheering at football games, supporting the dance team, or participating in LipSync and Cheerfest, students continue to find ways to celebrate being a part of the Raider Family.
