WHS Class of 2027 hosts ‘Windham Skating Party’

By Jolene Bailey

One of Windham High School’s most-involved clubs in extracurricular activities is the student and class council.

Student council is a representative group of students to promote and encourage school spirit and respect to all. Class council is an extension of that where students from each grade level elect positions in the spring to serve the class that the students themselves are in.

So far this year, Windham High School’s Class of 2027 has held several events encouraging participants.

Bailey Ward is a part of the Class of 2027’s class council and says that the sophomores are focused on raising money for future class events, such as homecoming, prom and senior events. This requires them to host several fundraisers during the school year. Last year around late winter they held a “Roller Skating Night” at Happy Wheels in Westbrook.

“The event turned out pretty good, but it was not a completely private event.” Ward said. “We only received some of the proceeds because of this.”

This year, the Class of 2027 has planned an “Ice Skating Night” at William B. Trough Ice Arena in Portland.

“This time we have rented out an arena and the event will be open to the entire community, kids, families, etc.,” Ward said. “The private event is different from the roller skating event since it is more focused on Windham and Raymond.”

During the winter months, it can be difficult to find ways to exercise and plan fun events with others. Ice skating is a way to not only enjoy your time with others but also stay active while doing so.

“We thought an ‘Ice Skating Party’ would be perfect for this time of year,” Ward said. “I am most looking forward to the outcome of this event. I am hoping it brings our community together even more and overall turns into a fun night for everyone.”

Students involved with the community is an important part of learning and Ward said it can increase engagement, make lifelong friendships and improve overall attendance.

“Everyone should feel welcome and hopefully enjoy their time,” she said. “Hopefully, we will have a nice turnout and raise some good money for our class that will help us with prom and many other events in the future.”

One positive impact that events such as the “Windham Skating Party” has is for students to get out and to interact with others. Being able to get around new people and trying to step outside of your own comfort zone is vital in teenage years.

“It is also a great event to go to with your friends and grab a bite to eat after,” Ward said. “Another thing I think will be nice is that it is a way for people to learn to skate if they already don't know how.”

The “Windham Skating Party” will be from 6:45 to 8 p.m. Saturday, March 15 at William B. Trough Ice Arena, 225 Park Ave. in Portland. Ward says that throughout the event there will be music, food, and a few raffles. Skates will be included but students may bring their own pair if they choose to.

WHS Class of 2027 advisors Jennnifer Long and Chris DiBernardo will oversee this event as they have helped coordinate this event and others in the past. <