GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- Every fall, Union High School kicks off the school year with one of its most exciting and meaningful traditions: Freshman Field Day. Held annually since 2016, the event focuses on fostering a sense of unity and belonging among the entire 9th grade class—something Union staff believes is critical to long-term academic and personal success.
“Our scholars come from a variety of feeder programs throughout GRPS and other districts, so this is one of our first big events to bring them all together as a 9th grade team,” said Dana Bachelder, Assistant Principal at Union High School. “All nationwide data points to the fact that having a successful freshman year equates to success in the rest of your high school career.”
Red vs. Black: Friendly Competition
This year, the event was held on Friday, September 12. Before things kicked off, scholars were divided into red and black teams based on their first-hour classes. Then, throughout the day, they rotated through various activities that combined physical challenges, teambuilding, and friendly competition.
This year, stations included tire flipping, wiffleball throwing, plank walking, soccer target shooting, inflatable jousting, Kan Jam, and a dunk tank. At the end of the event, the red and black teams squared off in a tug-of-war competition, bringing the entire class together for one final, energetic showdown.
A Community Effort
Freshman Field Day wouldn’t be possible without strong support from community partners. When asked about how Union’s community partners contributed to the event, Bachelder was quick to offer praise.
“The National Guard comes every year and has some sort of blow-up fun activity,” she said. “First Covenant Church has partnered with us for years and is always here to support. Grand Rapids Community Foundation is how it all started with funding assistance.”
Additionally, freshman teachers, the counseling department, and many support staff from Union help ensure the event runs smoothly every year.
Building Leadership Through Scholar Voice
One of the unique elements of Field Day is the involvement of Union's own scholars in leadership roles. Upperclassmen in the school’s JROTC program helped run stations and support the logistics of the event.
“We have several opportunities for students to be in leadership roles,” said Bachelder. “We have found that if they have scholar voice, the buy-in is usually much better.”
By giving scholars ownership over the event, Union fosters participation and school pride, building a foundation of leadership that benefits individuals and the school as a whole.
More to Come
Freshman Field Day is just the beginning of a full calendar of signature events at Union High School. Throughout the semester, the school will continue to foster community building and scholar engagement through events like the Cultural Celebration, Homecoming, Thanksgiving Raffle, and Holiday Celebration—each offering scholars a chance to connect, lead, and celebrate together.
For more information about upcoming Union events, please reach out to Morgan Bills, Union’s KSSN Coordinator, at billsm@grps.org.
