On March 22, 2024, the Woodbridge High Associated Student Body (ASB) held its first-ever Spring Carnival, welcoming current and future students, families and teachers alike.
Breaking away from the norm of hosting a traditional spring dance such as Jersey Jam, the student leaders of ASB decided to shake things up. Their aim was to create an event that would break down barriers, welcome everyone and bring the whole Woodbridge community together.
Moreover, ASB extended invitations to families from Irvine Unified School District (IUSD) elementary and middle schools, notably Lakeside Middle and Eastshore Elementary. The carnival welcomed families with complimentary admission, offering them the option to purchase tickets for specific attractions like food and club booths.
Senior and ASB Activities Commissioner Odessa Bramlet took the helm in organizing the Spring Carnival. With a multitude of responsibilities on her plate, Bramlet undertook the crucial task of sourcing outside vendors for carnival games and coordinating with an attraction company to secure a Ferris wheel for the event.
“The Spring Carnival was genuinely the largest [event] I’ve planned in my life,” Bramlet said. “From the original idea brainstorm to the rides we were purchasing, everything was run through countless members of [ASB] and our advisers to get input and make needed changes. My job was to take all of these ideas and to make [them] into what you all know as our Spring Carnival.”
The carnival served as a platform for student and teacher organizations to display their talents and contributions to the Woodbridge community. Among the notable participants were the teacher band, the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) and various student-run clubs on campus such as South Asian Student Association, Model United Nations, Sustainable Agriculture Club and Cross Country.
Yet, a single attraction stole the spotlight at the carnival: the Ferris wheel. Its towering presence ignited excitement among students and parents alike. Additionally, the inflatable obstacle course offered a different kind of thrill, catering to those seeking a fun challenge without the heights of the Ferris wheel. The obstacle course served as a reminder of simpler times, as it evoked a sense of nostalgia from carnival goers.
“I just wanted to thank everyone again for coming or participating in our carnival, it was way better than I could’ve ever imagined,” Bramlet said. “I was so grateful that my vision was able to turn into reality and I hope it continues as a Woodbridge tradition.”
With the resounding success of the Spring Carnival, ASB not only fulfilled its mission of fostering inclusivity but also set a powerful example for future generations to follow. As of now, ASB is set to continue the fun-filled event, however, it could be subject to change. Conversations are still ongoing whether ASB would like to bring back the carnival in the following years.
