NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — The Dawghouse gym at North Platte High School was filled with cheers, applause, and a renewed sense of academic pride Friday morning as students gathered for the school’s first-ever Academic Pep Rally.
With a full gym of classmates, faculty, and community leaders in attendance, students who excelled on their ACT exams were recognized in a spirited celebration of hard work and high achievement.
The full-school assembly honored students who excelled on the ACT, with standout performers walking away with high-tech prizes. Four students who scored 30 or above on the test received brand-new MacBook Airs, donated by the North Platte Public Schools Foundation, Mayor Brandon Kelliher, and local philanthropists Mary and Marcia Baumann.
Students scoring between 25 and 29 were awarded new iPads, courtesy of generous donations from Fat Dogs/Wilkensen Companies, Brian and Kathy Phares, Leland and Kathy Poppe, Dr. Ronald and Shary Asher, and the Kaschke Family, in memory of Mark Kaschke.
Principal Cory Spotanski said the rally was inspired by a desire to bring the same level of energy and recognition to academics that’s often reserved for athletics.
“It’s a way to level up and get our kids excited,” Spotanski told The Post. “There are some schools that do pep rallies for math tests in elementary grades. At our school, learning is our Super Bowl.”
Spotanski credited both students and staff for embracing the school’s efforts to prioritize ACT readiness, saying the academic culture is shifting in a powerful way.
“Our kids are buying into our staff, so there’s a level of pride,” he said. “It’s hard to get 1,200 people to share a vision, but we keep reminding our students: ‘You’re born for more than you ever thought possible.’ This test proves that. It doesn’t matter where you’re from or what your last name is—if you prepare and perform, it can open any door.”
The event marked a milestone for the high school, combining recognition with motivation and setting the stage for future academic celebrations.