Skip to main content

Totem Talk: September 20, 2026

Posted Date: 09/20/26 (06:53 PM)


A banner for 'Kiss The Pig 2026' featuring competition results with photos of participants, school graphics, and gold and silver award ribbons.
The words 'TOTEM TALK' are displayed in large white letters on an orange background.

Community Brief

September 20, 2026

A Message From Dr. Maestre

We have just passed the midpoint of the 2026-2027 quarter 1 and have since posted student progress report grades to Skyward, the powerful OCPS online student information system. If you were not able to attend Brave Connections last week, there are other ways to generate communication with teachers about your child's success. Parent Square has become one of the most useful platforms for two-way communication between parents and school faculty. Also, please make sure you have an account set up in Skyward to track your child's grades and attendance in real time. If you are struggling with this, please don't hesitate to let us know, and we will help.

In this edition of Totem Talk, you will find our modified schedule for this Friday's Resiliency Day. There is also important information for next week's Homecoming Week, including ticket sales, spirit dress up days, Homecoming BBQ tickets, and class dinner sales. Also, be sure to check out the August Student of the Month winners and also the winner and runner-up of Kiss the Pig 2026.

As always, thank you for reading and best wishes for a successful week ahead!

 
Forever Brave,
 
Hector Maestre, Ed.D.
Principal
 
A bell schedule flyer for Friday, September 25th, labeled "Resiliency Day" with periods from 7:20 to 2:20.

Resiliency Day - September 25, 2026

Boone High School will observe Resiliency Day on Friday, September 25. Students will follow a modified bell schedule for the day.

Resiliency Day gives students time during the school day to focus on important life skills that support their overall well-being and success. Students will complete lessons covering topics such as overcoming challenges, managing stress, developing healthy coping strategies, making responsible choices, and knowing where to turn for help and support on campus.

These lessons are part of required mental health and resiliency education and are designed to give students practical tools they can use both in and outside of school.
 

Homecoming 2026

Boone High School Homecoming Dance: A Night in the City on October 3rd. Tickets on sale at teachtix.com.

Homecoming 2026

The biggest event of the fall is almost here, and you won’t want to miss it! Mark your calendars for October 3, because our SGA is thrilled to present this year’s Homecoming dance: A Night in the City.
Get ready to step into a dazzling urban oasis as we transform the cafeteria and courtyard into a glowing skyline filled with bright lights, great music, and unforgettable memories. It will be an incredible evening!

Homecoming Dance Tickets
A colorful flyer details Boone High School's Homecoming Week events from September 28 to October 2.

Spirit Dress Up Days: September 28 - October 2

Homecoming Week is almost here! Our Student Government Association has put together an epic lineup of theme days—start planning your outfits now!
Here is your official breakdown of the dress-up themes for the week:

🎒 Monday: Anything But a Backpack Day
Kick off the week by leaving your standard school bag at home! Find the most creative, safe, and portable way to carry your books and school supplies. Think laundry baskets, coolers, strollers, or trash cans, just make sure it fits through the classroom doors!

🧳 Tuesday: Tacky Tourist Day
Break out the Hawaiian shirts, fanny packs, bucket hats, and socks with sandals! Dress like you’re on a wacky tropical vacation or exploring a landmark for the first time. Don't forget your sunglasses and printed map!

🍔 Wednesday: Soccer Moms vs. BBQ Dads
It’s time for the ultimate showdown!
  • Soccer Moms: Grab your visor, oversized sunglasses, athletic wear, tumbler cup, and bring the minivan-driver energy.
  • BBQ Dads: Strap on your apron, lace up your white lawn-mowing sneakers, rock those cargo shorts, and bring a spatula to complete the look.

💡 Thursday: Bright Lights Day
Shine bright for Homecoming! Wear your most eye-catching neon colors, metallic clothing, or glow accessories. Let’s light up the hallways and make Thursday impossible to miss!

🟧 Friday: Orange & White Day
Show up and show out for our school colors! Deck yourself out head-to-toe in Orange & White to bring maximum energy. Face paint, tutus, jerseys, and school gear are highly encouraged!

Remember: All outfits must follow the school dress code. Let’s make this the most spirited Homecoming Week ever!
A light blue flyer announces the 3rd Annual Boone High School PTSO Homecoming Barbecue on October 1st at 5:15 PM.
Don't wait!  Purchase your tickets for the PTSO BBQ by September 28th by clicking on the button below!
PTSO Homecoming BBQ Tickets
A promotional flyer for Boone High School Homecoming Class Dinner tickets for the classes of 2027 to 2030, featuring a QR code and instructions to scan for details.

FIND YOUR CLASS DINNER EVENT!

Planning to attend the Homecoming Dance? Remember that the Homecoming Class Dinner is a SEPARATE ticket and must be purchased separately from your dance ticket! 

If your student plans to attend dinner, please purchase their ticket as soon as possible. Buying early helps us plan for the right amount of food, tables, and seating for everyone.

 Homecoming Dance Ticket = Separate Purchase
 Homecoming Dinner Ticket = Separate Purchase

Find all the events and tickets on the Linktree: https://linktr.ee/booneptso

Each class has its own Homecoming Dinner, so be sure to purchase the ticket for your student’s graduating class.

Don’t wait! Purchase your dinner tickets early and help us plan a great Homecoming evening.
 
A large group of runners wearing orange shirts and medals stand together near a blue race finish arch.

NJROTC Participation in the Tunnel to Towers 5K

In honor of the lives lost on September 11th, 2001, Boone’s NJROTC program proudly participated in the annual Tunnel to Towers 5K on Saturday, September 12th. This event is organized by the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which honors the legacy of Stephen Siller, an off-duty firefighter who heroically sacrificed his life during the tragic events of 9/11. Our cadets ran and walked alongside public members, fully suited firefighters, and police officers in full gear as a living tribute to his courage and to all who made the ultimate sacrifice that day. For the past 25 years, the Siller family, together with countless others who lost loved ones on 9/11, has ensured that this 5K continues each year to preserve their memory and honor their enduring legacy.  

The story of Stephen Siller remains a powerful testament to bravery and selflessness. On the morning of September 11th, 2001, Siller was on his way to meet his brothers for a round of golf when he learned that the first plane had struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Without hesitation, he turned back toward Manhattan, determined to help. Though off-duty and delayed by heavy traffic near the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel, Siler strapped on approximately 60 pounds of firefighting gear and ran the 3.1 miles on foot to the towers. His actions exemplify the highest standards of courage, sacrifice, and duty - values that continue to inspire participants of the Tunnel to Towers run each year.  
 
On Saturday, Cadet Enrico Prado Franca proudly represented our program at the annual run, honoring the lives lost and the heroes of September 11th. Cadet Prado Franca showcased his dedication and endurance by earning an impressive 1st Place in his age group and placing 4th overall, while Cadet Luz Valentin placed 2nd in her age group and placed 41st overall. Both Enrico Prado Franca and Luz Valentin earned a trophy for their age group place. Their achievements not only highlight their personal commitment to excellence but also pride, recognition and dedication for our entire NJROTC unit.
 
Events like The Tunnel to Towers 5K remind us that the legacy of September 11th is not only one of tragedy but also of resilience, unity, and heroism. By participating, our cadets not only honor the sacrifices of Stephen Siller and countless others but also embody the values of service, perseverance, and leadership that define the NJROTC program. Their dedication ensures that the memory of 9/11 continues to inspire future generations to live with courage and purpose.  
A young runner wearing an orange shirt holds a trophy near a red, white, and blue balloon arch that reads "NEVER FORGET".
A smiling participant wearing a medal and holding a Tunnel to Towers Foundation award in front of a branded backdrop.
 
Boone High School August Student of the Month poster displaying winners and nominees for 9th through 12th grades.

August Students of the Month

Congratulations to all of our August Student of the Month nominees!

A special congratulations to our August Students of the Month:
9th Grade: Cristina Ramirez
10th Grade: Juliet Woodhall
11th Grade: Ryan Coughlin
12th Grade: Patrick Jacobson

We are so proud of all of our nominees and appreciate the positive impact they make at Boone each day. Congratulations, Braves!
 

Kiss the Pig 2026

A group of people hold a banner reading 'P WINNER 2026' on a track field at night.

Congratulations to Our Kiss the Pig Winner and Runner-Up!

The donations are in, the pennies (and dollars!) have been counted, and we are thrilled to announce the winners of this year’s Kiss the Pig fundraiser!

🏆 1st Place Champion: Mrs. Williamson!
A massive congratulations to Mrs. Williamson, who took the top spot by raising an incredible $828.75! Her prize was kissing Pua after school this past Friday, and she was presented with her piggy bank trophy at the football game! 🐽💋

🥈 2nd Place Runner-Up: Mrs. Hilley!
Right behind in a close second place is Mrs. Hilley, who brought in a fantastic total of $673.00! Her prize was kissing Fergus after school this past Friday! 🐮💋

A heartfelt THANK YOU to all of our Brave faculty members who volunteered and to everyone who donated! Thanks to your generosity, SGA raised a grand total of $3,267.54!

Every cent raised through this event will go directly toward providing complete Thanksgiving meals for Boone families in need this holiday season. Your support ensures that our entire community has a wonderful, warm Thanksgiving.

Thank you for your spirit, your generosity, and for being such an amazing community! 
Seven people stand in an outdoor enclosure holding a large white banner that reads 'KTP WINNER 2026' in pink and brown.
A group of students and an adult hold a large banner reading "KTP Runner-up 2026" with drawings of a cow and a heart.
 

Where is Fergus Jr.?

To celebrate the arrival of Fergus, our staffulty is passing around Fergus Jr. to the person of their choice on campus. That person will proudly display Fergus Jr. in their classroom or office for a week before  presenting him to someone new. Stay tuned to Totem Talk to see where Fergus Jr. goes next.
Two smiling women pose for a selfie inside a classroom, with one holding a fluffy stuffed animal.

Nurse Bonnie presents Fergus Jr. to Ms. Williamson!

Fergus Jr. goes to Jen Williamson! Ms. Williamson is an amazing asset to our school. She is one of the most resourceful people I’ve met and is always willing to share. She treats our students with respect, accountability, and love. Thank you, Ms. Williamson, for always being there.
 

Class of 2027

Poster announcing Senior Ad Nights with dates, times, and locations.

Senior Yearbook Ads

Buy your senior ad NOW to ensure a spot in the yearbook! Pages are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

All information is available on the senior ads sign-up form and in the contract.
 

Class of 2028

Advertisement for Junior Class Rings from Boone High School, featuring two class rings and the school's mascot.

Junior Class Rings

Attention Juniors: Are you interested in purchasing a Boone High School class ring?  If so, go to 
herffjones.com to design and order your ring today!
 

College and Career Information

College & Career News

🎓 College Visits at Boone!
Juniors & Seniors: Take advantage of the opportunity to meet directly with college admissions representatives right here at school!
College visits give you the chance to:
  • 🎓 Hear directly from the college reps who read applications
  • 💬 Ask questions about admissions, programs, scholarships, and campus life
  • 📋 Learn what colleges are looking for in applicants
  • 🌟 Show your interest and explore your options
Juniors & Seniors Only
Students must sign up in advance to attend a college visit.
Space may be limited, so be sure to register for the colleges you want to meet!
Questions?
 Email Mrs. Gurley for more information.

🎓 College Reps in the Cafeteria!
All grade levels are welcome!
Stop by the college tables during lunch to meet directly with college representatives, ask questions, and get information about admissions, programs, scholarships, and campus life.
No sign-up needed—just stop by!
A promotional flyer for SAT and ACT tutoring sessions on Wednesdays after school from 1:10 to 2:15 in Ms. Gurley's room.

SAT and ACT Tutoring

Are you getting ready to tackle the SAT or ACT this semester? We are excited to offer free, weekly after-school tutoring to help Braves score their best on these important college entrance exams!

Whether you want to bump up your math score, master the reading strategies, or simply figure out where to start, our targeted prep sessions are designed to help you build confidence and improve your scores.

No advance registration is required, just drop in with your school laptop or notebook! Have questions or need help registering for an upcoming test date? Drop by the College and Career Center during school hours or reach out to Ms. Gurley at nicole.gurley@ocps.net. 
 

Athletics

A volleyball player in a black jersey numbered 13 looks up at the ball hovering above the net during an indoor game.
A volleyball player jumps high to set the ball near the net during an indoor match.

Fall Sports

Our fall athletics season is underway! There is still plenty of time to take in the action for football, golf, bowling, girls' volleyball, swimming and diving, and cross country.  Take a moment to check out the schedules below and make a plan to come out and support your Braves!  Game tickets can be purchased at gofan.co. You should consider purchasing an "All Sports Pass" to give you access to all regular season home games the entire school year. 
Two high school football teams line up face-to-face in a stadium, ready for the snap.
A high school football game takes place under stadium lights at night, with players in action on the field.
A group of diverse cheerleaders in orange uniforms and blue pom-poms smile on a running track at night.
A young child in an orange shirt joyfully cheers alongside high school cheerleaders on a red running track at night.

Varsity Football Recap

Our Boone Braves put on a dominant performance at home this past Friday, defeating the East River Falcons with a decisive 49–19 victory. 

The Braves' offense hit its stride early and kept the pressure on throughout the matchup, breaking past the East River defense to put up 49 total points. With this win, we improved our season record to 2–2, bouncing back with strong momentum as we prepare for district play. The East River Falcons fought hard to put 19 points on the board, but were unable to keep pace with our team.

This week, we return home Friday, September 25, to take on the Timber Creek Wolves in a key 6A District 4 matchup. Come out and support our Braves!
The 2026 varsity football schedule for William R. Boone High School lists dates, opponents, locations, and times.
The 2026 JV football schedule for William R. Boone High School features games from August to October, listed with dates, opponents, locations, and times.
The 2026 girls volleyball schedule for William R. Boone High School lists dates, opponents, locations, and game times.
A graphic displaying the William R. Boone High School 2026 cross country schedule, listing dates, opponents, places, and times.
A schedule for the William R. Boone High School 2026 swimming and diving team, listing dates, opponents, locations, and staff names.
William R. Boone High School 2026 Varsity Bowling Schedule document with dates, opponents, locations, and times listed.
A schedule for the William R. Boone High School 2026 Varsity Girls Golf team, listing dates, opponents, locations, and times.
The 2026 Varsity Boys Golf Schedule for William R. Boone High School, detailing dates, opponents, locations, and times.
Poster for Boone High School Athletic Association's 'All Sports Pass' with pricing for student, adult, family, and grandparent passes.
 

Braves Bash

You don't want to miss an exciting event to support Boone! The Boone High School Athletics Association is hosting Braves Bash - Orange and White Night Saturday, Oct 17, at Primrose Lanes. 

Your ticket includes complimentary refreshments and tons of fun - bowling, karaoke and more! Grab your friends and celebrate the Brave Spirit with us! Visit auctria.events/BravesBash to purchase tickets, register to bid and view the growing collection of auction items!
A colorful event flyer for "Braves Bash: Orange & White Night" at Primrose Lanes on Saturday, October 17th, featuring ticket details and a QR code.
 
The Boone High School logo is also referred to as the Brave Head. An orange and white graphic of a profile with a feathered headdress.

Contact info

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Administration
  • Principal: Dr. Hector Maestre - 60998@ocps.net
  • Assistant Principal: Mr. Daniel Abalo - 34823@ocps.net
  • Assistant Principal: Ms. Denine Brown - 54177@ocps.net
  • Assistant Principal: Dr. Timothy Flynn - 100795@ocps.net
  • Assistant Principal: Ms. Kristen Gillespie - 105208@ocps.net

General Contact