The bell rings as students scatter through the halls. Over the intercom, the school fight song, courtesy of our band, is blaring for the third time this morning. Following this comes the alma mater, and after that, the fight song resumes.

  On Fridays, the school fight song and alma mater, performed by our band and choir respectively, play over the intercom during passing periods. Though the practice was intended to encourage school spirit, its effectiveness is lacking.

  Hearing the same two songs on loop becomes a chore on the ears. The hallway music is undeniably repetitive, but a wider variety of music plays on the other 4 weekdays, so the repetition is usually less of an issue.

  When it comes to raising school spirit, the opposite is attained. Both the fight song and alma mater are brief, only lasting about a minute, so the number of times they loop throughout the day feels almost painful to hear. By the end of the day, the songs become a chore on the ears.

  It’s difficult not to appreciate the sentiment, of course. School spirit is not exactly abundant, but an alternative would be better. For example, if the songs were to be played over the intercom after Friday’s announcements just once a week, they would become far more appreciated. After all, Friday typically has few announcements, so class time would not be hindered any more than it is on an average day.

  Limiting Friday’s school spirit to the announcements is the best way to appease the student body while also maintaining Wildcat pride and showcasing the music program. It would be less excessive but would reach the students and staff in a more effective way.