Rose basketball highlights
Fri. |10-6-25| FEATURES
Every October, the Rose Annex transforms into an eerie maze of fog, monsters and screams for the annual haunted house. This tradition has been valued for over 10 years, bringing thrills and fun together.
Art teacher Randall Leach, who runs the National Art Honor Society, originally began this project and now supervises the entire operation. From the beginning in the Rose hallways to now, occurring in the Annex, the haunted house continues to expand every year and generate student ideas.
“The [students] brought the idea to me because it's all been student-generated, and so I was like, ‘I'll take it to administration to see if I can push it through,’” Leach said. “Then luckily, we got it approved, and it’s been growing ever since.”
As a student-led project, the National Art Honor Society takes all of October for preparation. The members spend weeks building the props, designing the set and creating the costumes. With their dedication and hard work, the haunted house comes to life.
“It’s impressive to see the students take over and make it happen,” Leach said. “I really, truly don't have to do anything, I'm just watching it all work.”
Photo by Gabriela Castillo
Junior Hazel Kate Hughes, the social media manager of this organization, enjoys the experience of all the fun, chaos and themes everyone creates.
“It’s so silly and so much fun,” Hughes said. “We all work after school through October, making things, and everyone gets to dress up and be part of it; it’s just a really fun, creative thing that brings everyone together.”
A memorable attribute of this project is when they all sit together brainstorming fun and spooky themes. This year's theme, “Haunted Shipwreck,” will add a new twist to contribute to the long-standing tradition.
“We all throw out ideas and then vote on our favorite,” Hughes said. “This year’s shipwreck theme has been my favorite so far.”
The haunted house is accessible to anyone and is free to walk through, with the support of a tour guide. This is one of many Rose events that is free of charge, which makes it unique.
“We wanted this to be something every student could enjoy,” Leach said. “There’s so much at school that costs money, so keeping this free makes it special.”
Even though this experience is supposed to be fright-filled, it has a meaningful way of bringing people closer. Anyone is welcome to help or participate, and some students do, aside from the National Art Honors Society students. This event truly is a great way to build a support team.
“Everyone’s involved in some way, and it’s really cool to see how much effort goes into it and then see people’s reactions once it’s done,” Hughes said. “It’s just really silly, and it’s funny to watch how people react.”
The haunted house is more than just a Halloween event; it grants an opportunity for students to completely run a program and collaborate using their skills. It also allows students to carry on this tradition for many years to come.
“When those doors open and I hear the screams, that’s my favorite part,” Leach said. “That’s when I know all the hard work paid off.”
The annual haunted house provides a reminder that a small, unique idea from a student can lead to something greater and become one of Rose’s most loved and valued traditions. The haunted house continues to grow and provide the perfect fall activity, increasing school spirit.
