Since the graduation of Grossmont High’s first senior class in 1921, homecoming has been a tradition. In the 1920s, homecoming was called “Alumni Day.” In the early decades, the celebrations varied, but often included an alumni play, a basketball game, a dance, and alumni attending classes of their favorite teachers “to live again, for a while, in memories of the time when they, too, were students here.”
This year’s homecoming theme, celebrating the start of our 106th year, was “Hiller Hoedown” with dress-up days for students and staff including Denim Days on Tuesday, Country Sunset (wear sunset colors) on Wednesday, Country! on Thursday, and Extreme Blue and Gold on Friday.
Friday’s events began with the KUSI Alarm Clock Pep Rally from 6:30-8:55 a.m. in the New Gym. The ASB class encouraged “Every Hiller to join. This year we were back live on KUSI showing the community why it is ‘Great to be Young and a Foothiller!’”
They were live all morning on KUSI, culminating in a 10-minute segment.
Students came to school decked out in blue and gold. In their second period, they took a class photo. If their class had a higher percentage of blue and gold compared to other classes, they won a prize. If 50% or more of the class were dressed up, they automatically won a prize.
After second period in the New Gym, ASB hosted the Homecoming Pep Assembly with fun for Foothillers students and staff.
The Homecoming Game
The Hillers defeated Otay Ranch 54-45. During the halftime performances of the Marching Band and Dance, the 2026 GHS Homecoming Royalty Court Queen and King were revealed as the show concluded with fireworks.
2026 Royalty Court: Madi Busch, Madi Naputi, Saraya Roppe, Elsie Strongosky, Aurora Rodriguez, Jonah Yost, Tyler Holmes, Marshal Rhine, Santiago Monreal and Darion Crawford
Congratulations to Queen Madi Naputi and King Marshal Rhine.
Saturday’s Homecoming Dance for GHS students took place behind the 1922 “Castle” from 6-10 p.m. Students learned country dances from a line dance instructor. There were two food trucks, photo booths, photo opportunities, games, and more. Casual attire and closed-toed shoes were encouraged.
While the details of Grossmont High Homecomings have evolved over the years and decades, the spirit of our alumni is ever present when they visit the campus. This summer, several classes have already visited campus to relive their memories of being a Foothiller and to celebrate the new buildings and improvements on campus.
Upcoming GHS Museum Hours for All and Reunions: 10-1 Saturdays, Oct. 10(Classes of 1956 and 1966), Oct. 24 (Class of 1976), Nov. 21. Or Fridays by prior appointment when school is in session. Contact: ghsmuseum@guhsd.net, foothillermuseum.com.
