In a year that has been anything but normal, Palmerton Area High School students are prepping for one of the most traditional events on the calendar; homecoming.

Spirit Week activities will lead up to the homecoming king and queen crowning, which will be held in a special event Saturday at 7 p.m., to be streamed on Palmerton’s YouTube channel. Themes this week include pajama day, USA day and Blue Bomber spirit wear day.

“The student body is thrilled to have the chance to get back into the swing of things with some school spirit events like these,” Emily Baumgardt, student council president, said. “We all look forward to having somewhat of a normal year, and this is the best way to start it off. I am most looking forward to seeing our students come together and participate to make the best out of the situation we have.”

Palmerton’s homecoming court this year consists of Abby Reis, Delaney Frank, Megan Serfass, Carissa Fallon, Lauren Rehrig, Emily Baumgardt, Molly Mihalko, Kody Kratzer, Tim Isle, Hunter Connell, Corlan Wood, Owen Buck, Dylan Bartholomew and Ethan Recker.

“The student body is excited to finally get back to doing some things that make us feel as though it is a normal school year despite the social distancing and events that we aren’t able to have,” said Buck, who in addition to being on the court, serves as student council vice president.

Also on Saturday night, the high school will incorporate a “Shirt Off My Back” event into the festivities.

“Shirt Off My Back is where we incorporate education and athletics as one,” Josh Nenscel, student council co-adviser, said. “Each senior football player presents a T-shirt with their name on the back to a teacher that has influenced them over their high school career.”

Buck said his shirt will be going to teacher and student council co-adviser Jeana Baumgardt.

“I chose Mrs. Baumgardt as my teacher because she has always displayed a care and dedication to helping her students and always trying to better their day in some way,” Buck added.

The stream for the Shirt Off My Back and homecoming court presentations can be found at https://youtu.be/4nXVLEdDgas.