On November 21st, 2024—Rich Township High School hosted its annual gratitude luncheon. Students at both the FAC and STEM campus would enter the cafeteria at the start of 7th period and grab a tasty lunch in a white box; consisting of turkey, sweet potatoes, green beans, a cookie, and soda.

On the way to the smaller gymnasium, the school’s only robot floor cleaner was orbiting around the corner. Inside the gymnasium were several dozen rows of circular tables and chairs. Around 20 minutes in, the band club played uplifting jazz music with trumpets as a key instrument.

Towards the end, Mrs. Creer gave a speech about gratitude and the history of the Gratitude luncheon at Rich Township. Soon after, a few staff members came around the room to give pieces of paper with a template to each table. Students would write a heartfelt ‘thank you’ letter to a staff member, teacher, and even other students.

Lastly, students exited the gymnasium from the side closer to the auditorium and went to 8th period. A friend of mine said “The luncheon was nice and felt very authentic” in response to the experience overall.