By Gabby Rodriguez and Marina Cosmas – Staff Reporters

The Jonathan Law Class of 2028 Student Council hosted a Students vs. Staff Basketball Game on April 1.

Sophomore Cora Aitkenhead helped organize this event to raise funds for the sophomore class, while also finding an event to encourage students of other grades to participate. While only having a small amount of time to prepare for this event, it gave many new memories to look back on. 

“The outcome was really great as we got a big crowd and a very interesting game for both the players and everyone who came to watch and support,” Aitkenhead said. “We knew it would be difficult, but seeing the community come together and hearing from both students and staff what a great time they had really made those few weeks of hard work really worth it.”

As a participant in the game, Principal Darcy found this event to be a great way for the students and staff to come together.

“When staff get involved in events like this, it shows our human side,” Darcy said. “We can show who we are, support our school and students, and show that we are part of this community, right along with our students.”

Spanish Teacher Mr. McPartland was happy to be a part of the event and found it as a great way to build upon the incredible school spirit.

“I decided to join the game because it’s a great opportunity to connect with students outside of the classroom in a fun, yet competitive setting,” McPartland said. “And as a coach, I always enjoy being around the game in any capacity.”

Students also saw the Law community come together for this – and saw some unexpected talent from the teachers.

“Having that element of friendly competition and being in an unusual environment with your teachers helps with seeing them in a different light than you usually would,” senior participant Yiedan Nieves said. “We knew some of the staff, like Rags, McPartland, and Coach Pearson, would have some solid skills, but Mr. Darcy and Mr. Austin surprised us with their abilities in the paint.”

Although the game was about having fun and bringing Law spirit, a major benefit of the event was gaining funds.

“The goal of hosting this event was primarily to raise funds for the sophomore class, while also creating a schoolwide event that could bring together students and staff in the law community,” Aikenhead said.

All of the memories and fun lead back to crediting those who made it possible.

“My favorite moment was the planning ahead of time,” Darcy said. “We had two sophomore students come up with the concept; they met with me a few times, and they were the people who really ran the event to make it successful.”

Organizers of the event received positive feedback from both participants and spectators which may lead to this event becoming an annual tradition.

“I would definitely consider playing again next year,” McPartland said. “It was a ton of fun and it was a unique way to build relationships with students while representing the staff in a positive way. Plus, we need our comeback – staff by a million next year.”

The game brought the community together and was filled with energy.

“The game was memorable because of the amount of people that came out to the game and the energy and competition in the game,” junior participant Emily Vella said.