Carrollton celebrated Conge on Feb. 21. This is a Sacred Heart tradition where seniors cancel class for a day full of fun. Every year, students wait in desperation for Conge’s arrival, which is supposed to be a surprise. On the morning of the event, they see the campus decorated with signs. Seniors dressed in their costumes yell out, “Conge!”
“Conge is the best day out of the whole year,” said Camila Moreno ‘29.
This year’s theme was Disney Channel, which highlighted favorite movies and TV shows from the 2000s, including High School Musical, Teen Beach Movie, and Zombies. “It was really nice,” said Stella Giannakopoulos ‘29. “I liked the way they incorporated all of the movies we watched when we were kids.”
To start the day, students gathered in the Convocation Center to watch a skit performed by the seniors. Then they split into groups led by upperclassmen. They dressed in costumes provided by the seniors and did different activities, including bounce houses, charades, laser tag and so much more. “My favorite activity was making friendship bracelets so that I could strengthen the bond with my sacred sisters,” said Elsa Wick ‘29. Barbecue and chips were offered in addition to candy bags gifted by the seniors. As the day came to an end, students watched a final skit before going home.
Even though Conge happens every year, there is always a discussion about whether or not people should know the date beforehand. The seniors always try their best to keep Conge a surprise, but students try to pinpoint the date from the beginning of the year, not only because of their excitement but to decide if they should do their homework the day before.
The surprise is not just for students. Teachers also have no idea when it will happen, which can be difficult when they have to prepare assignments, tests, and quizzes. However, some people enjoy the element of surprise.
Overall, while Conge is a day of fun for the community, it takes a lot of work and organization and can be stressful for the people planning it. Seniors and teachers on the seniors’ Grade Level Team often stay up late the night before setting everything up. Teachers have to plan ahead and get all the classwork in order, and faculty members and upperclassmen have to supervise children during the event.
Looking ahead, Conge will undoubtedly continue to be a beloved Carrollton tradition. While themes and activities may change, the purpose of Conge, bringing the school community together for a day of fun, will remain the same. Whether it’s a student’s first Conge or her last, the excitement never fades, and the memories created on this special day last a lifetime. “Conge is important to Carrollton as a school of the Sacred Heart because it is an opportunity as a community to do something fun where you can enjoy time with your peers, friends, and sacred sisters,” said Mrs. Aguiar.
