Chili, cake walk, fashion show, live entertainment, and family and friends being brought together is what McCluer’s annual Family Night brought on Friday, April 8. The purpose of the night was for all who attended to have a fun night to fellowship with friends, students, and teachers.

With tickets only starting at $5 in advance and $6 at the door and children seven and under $2, some could claim that Family Night was a gift. The night was brought to students family, friends, and teachers thanks to Ms. Ellenmaria Wilcock.

“The night was to spread the awareness of the importance of music,” said Wilcock.
Family Night started in 1999 and its goal was just entertaining guests with music provided by the students. Years later the concept of parent involvement was added, making it family-wide participation.

Family Night gave students the opportunity to show school spirit and pride and provide a venue to get to know students and family. From 6 to 7 p.m. families received the opportunity to participate in a chili cook-off, cake walk and face painting. From 7 to 8:30 p.m. families were participated and watched live entertainment.

“I did what I was assign to do: bring the family together,” said Brandon Stewart after his performance.

Many believed Stewart did, as he performed R. Kelly’s song “Happy People.” Out of nowhere, more then half the crowd started to come together and dance in the open spaces of the Hub.
Between performances, students put on a fashion show to demonstrate for students the proper attire to wear to prom. Many seniors said they got a great idea and suggestions to wear to prom on May 7.

“The money we made helped our program a lot,” said choir manager Alexis Tucker. The benefits went to the music department and the PBIS program to purchase incentives for positive student behaviors.

Students are already preparing for next year’s Family Night to create another night of family, smiles and hugs.