On October 3rd, 2025 the Kaiser High School gymnasium turned into a Time Machine as students stepped into the early 2000s for this year’s Homecoming Dance off, theme “Y2K.” Y2K inspired dress up days, prepared each class to battle for the best dance crew.
The competition, one of the most anticipated events of Spirit Week, brought together dozens of student dancers, and hundreds of cheering classmates. As the music turned up, the first 2000s songs echoed throughout the gym. When the final scores were tallied, the Sophomore class claimed first place once again, continuing their winning streak after taking the win as Freshman last year. The Seniors followed closely in second place with a clean performance, while the Freshman came in third. The Juniors finished fourth, though their creative costumes and choreography still earned loud applause from the crowd.
The Sophomores’ routine stole the show with a Y2K-inspired mashup featuring popular hit songs like: “Bring ‘em out” by T.I, “Goodies” by Ciara, “Drop” by Timbaland, and “Crazy in love” by Beyoncé. Their performance included stunts, coordinated costumes, and a surprise finale that left the audience in awe. “We really wanted to do something that screamed early 2000’s” said Karen (Azuki) Kaneko, one of the dancers apart of the sophomore dance team. “Everyone remembers the Y2K fashion and music, even if we didn’t live through it. We practiced for weeks after school, learning choreography, and making sure every move matched the beat. We wanted people to really see the 2000’s come back to life.” The Sophomore win was more than a repeat victory, it was a statement.Their dedication did not go unnoticed, especially since they had to balance rehearsals with outside sports, and regular schoolwork.
The Senior’s routine was filled with big energy and a lot of sass, adding edge to their routine. Their routine consisted of Britney Spears’ songs, like “Toxic” taking the crowd back to the early 2000s. Freshman gained lots of praise for their difficult stunts like backflips, and students being tossed in the air. The Freshman blew away the crowd, despite being a first year team. “The energy in the gym was unmatched. Dance off was my favorite part of the Hoco assemblies, because I could firsthandedly experience what class rivalry feels like”. Sophomore spectator, Emi Itokazu says. Although the Juniors didn’t place high, their creativity stood out. Juniors danced on stage with custom made shirts labeled “JUNIORS” across the front in a spray paint effect, adding a subtle touch of class pride.
Behind the scenes, Student Council and Leadership students helped set up and decorate by making posters to set up around the gym. “Homecoming week is a fun yet stressful time for Leadership students” Noah Rivera, a tenth grader leadership student explains. “I enjoy making posters and helping decorate the gym, but it’s difficult to stay calm under pressure especially when you’re running behind schedule. But in the end, Homecoming ends up being an enjoyable time for all.”
