by: Anthony Rodriguez-Miranda
The Parent Teacher Student Organization organized the annual tailgate on Sept. 27 before the second home football game of the season. The event, held on the outdoor basketball courts near the theater, offered attendees various grilled foods at $5 per serving.
Students see the Tailgate as a relaxing event that brings the Aragon community together.
“It is a fun experience to have with friends,” said junior Ben Chiemingo. “The popularity of the tailgate comes from people wanting to interact and relate to others.”
The tailgate was created in association with Athletic Boosters and run with the help of parent volunteers and janitors.
“It takes a lot of hands to plan, set up, cook and serve food and clean up,” said PTSO member Christine Wilson. “It is one of the first events of the year that involves the entire student body and their families.”
Sophomore Crystal Chu believes the tailgate helps students reinforce existing relationships and create new ones.
“It will allow us to make new connections between us and strengthen the community bonds,” Chu said. “We can be very segregated between our classes, and I’m hoping that [the tailgate] will allow us to break out of that.”
The tailgate provided an opportunity for different student groups to showcase their talent.
Sophomore spirit squad member Grace Bloch performed a cheer routine with her team at the tailgate.
“I think the tailgate is popular because people do tailgates for actual big football teams … having a little one for Aragon is cool,” Bloch said.
Junior member of Treble with Angels, Emily Tsao, enjoyed the atmosphere.
“I love singing in front of my community because of the welcoming environment,” Tsao said. “Everyone is so supportive of each other and it is really nice to be congratulated after doing something out of your comfort zone.”
Choir and orchestra director John Chen trains and encourages student-run musical groups to perform at local community events like the tailgate.
“The tailgate is definitely worth it because it brings in different purpose to musical groups,” Chen said. “They’re not just practicing really hard and performing only at our once a year concert or twice a year concerts.”
Parents regard this event as a time to reconnect with each other and foster a sense of friendship between the community.
“It has a great feel,” said parent Laura Evans. “It is nice to be able to see friends from other schools and also see kids having a good time.”
