Johnston High School’s 2021 Homecoming will long be remembered as a super showcase of community spirit at an all-time high.
It began with Mayor Joseph M. Polisena, whose pride shined bright and included welcoming Gov. Dan McKee who was highly-impressed with the goings-on, and trickled down the talents of countless JHS students and extended into wall-to-wall people lining Atwood Avenue and Memorial Drive to watch Johnston’s highly-acclaimed Homecoming Parade.
Moreover, the parade — which is known as the only float, music and people-filled school event presented by school students in the state — attracted a larger-than-life audience that included adults, moms and pops, Proud Panthers on Cherry Hill and scores of youth football players and cheerleaders who showed how much they missed not having the event last year because of COVID-19.
Perhaps even more unique was that various parts of the parade were led by JHS grads and alumni who continue to show love for their community in various ways from the Mayor’s office to department leaders at JHS.
“This is always special!” exclaimed Matt Velino, a teacher who introduced his nephews Luca and Mason Andreozzi to the Panther Blue and White traditions. “Today is like a who’s who in Johnston … everywhere.”
The same held true for John Troino, who watched the parade and marveled at the colorful creative floats with his grandson and ECC student Lorenzo, who added: “Another great show of Johnstonians putting their best feet forward.”
Joseph P. Razza, Police Chief
Class of 1987
“It was an honor to march at this year’s JHS Homecoming Parade, a parade that was not short on community spirit, as Panther Pride was abundant,” said Razza. “Unfortunately, we lost out last year due to COVID, but this year’s parade coupled with spectacular weather, made for a phenomenal day. Being a proud 1987 JHS grad ad now the town’s Chief of Police, it was extremely rewarding and special for me to be part of this time-honored tradition. My hat and thanks goes to all that planned, donated their time and participated in this truly spirited community event.”
Robert V. Russo, Town Council President
Class of 1983
“As a proud graduate of the Class of 1983, it always is a joy to attend the annual Homecoming festivities,” Russo began. “Evolving as a gradate to now a member of town government for the past 27 years it brings extra pride to be a part of Homecoming. This year was extra special because it was the first homecoming since COVID-19 and it was great seeing the large crowd watching the parade.”
Russo, whose brother Greg Russo chairs the JHS Science Department and serves as Student Council Advisor, added: “It has been an honor being allowed to continue to serve my community and watch it grow and prosper. Hopefully, the school bond passes and we can build the best school system in the state. We need to provide our children the most advanced learning environment possible to compete in this ever-changing, complex world.”
Robert LaFazia, School Committee Chairman
Class of 1971
“We just celebrated our 50th Class Reunion,” the long-serving school leader offered. “As JHS grads we all look forward to Homecoming, especially the parade that shows of the skills and talents of today’s students who displayed unique talent and creativity in all four floats. It is also an honor to march in the parade with our town officials each and every year. This is always special!”
Bernard DiLulllo, Jr., Ed.D
Superintendent of Schools
Even though he’s not a JHS graduate, but a Classical High School alum, Dr. DiLullo loves and is always proud to wear, promote and showcase Panther Blue and White.
“The homecoming celebration was great and kicked off by the Battle of the Classes followed by Spirit Week and the Pep Rally,” he began. “These events fueled the students’ excitement for the Homecoming. The weather was perfect for the parade and evening’s dance. It was great to see all the supporters along the parade route cheering on the band, marchers that included Mayor Polisena and state and town leaders.”
Dr. DiLullo, who like many town officials marched the entire parade, went on: “The floats that were entered drew cheers from the crowd along the route. Congratulations to the Junior Class for entering the wining float. All four entries were impressive and showed our students’ creativity and cooperation to create such impressive pieces of work. Also, a special thank you to the Johnston Lions Club in providing alumni and school community a delicious breakfast as they have done through the years.”
Greg Russo, Science Department Chair
Student Council Advisor-Class of 1976
“Homecoming is special — always — because Johnston has so many traditions associated with it that makes it unique among schools in Rhode Island,” said Russo, a.k.a. Mr. All-Time Proud Panther. “When one encounters people that come to the school or view the floats on Homecoming Day, it’s great to hear all the reflections and remembrances that alumni have.”
The tireless, long-time and highly-popular teacher, also offered: “When they see the floats that have been an integral part of our tradition it especially rekindles many happy memories. Despite all the changes and even some people that have discouraged our students, the students and parents have carried on. This year it was especially evident with the wonderful job that all the classes did in their preparations for the day.”
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here