Colt Gomas, Student Life Reporter
The TCA house system has been around for about four years now, and it has become a big part of what makes our school feel connected. It was created to replace the old core groups, which only had about seven people. Now, instead of being in a small group, students are part of a house that includes roughly a quarter of the school. This change was not just about making the groups bigger, it was about building stronger unity and helping students from different grades get to know each other. The house system gives everyone a chance to work together, compete in fun events, and support one another, whether it’s during assemblies, service projects, or school competitions. It is a great way to make friendships across grades and to feel like you are part of something larger than yourself. Overall, the TCA house system is an amazing way our school brings people together and creates a real sense of community.
When new students come to TCA, the house system helps them feel welcome right away. Instead of trying to find their place in a small group, they are instantly part of a big community that is full of friendly faces and school spirit. Each house has students from different grades, so new students get to meet people who can show them around, help them adjust, and make them feel included. The new members of TCA first have to get picked for the houses. The first house rally is where all the new students find out which house they are in. They can be placed into the Gators, Cobras, Sharks, or Lions. The Gators are the previous winners from last year.
Each house at TCA shows unity in its own way, but what really makes the system strong is how everyone works together. The houses are not just about competition, they are about teamwork, leadership, and supporting one another. Every student plays a role in making their house better, whether it’s cheering during rallies, helping with physical games, or encouraging others to do their best. To keep that unity strong, we need people who are both smart and strong, students who lead with kindness, think creatively, and push others to succeed. When everyone brings their strengths to the table, the houses become more than just groups; they become families that represent what TCA is all about: courage, unity, and pride.
What students look forward to most is joining their house and becoming part of something bigger. Truett, a freshman, said, “I am looking for all the connections I can make, and I am excited to be a part of the Sharks.” Truett was recently elected into the Sharks and is ready to prove himself. He was chosen by Mrs. Gables, who popped a balloon over his head, releasing blue confetti to reveal his new house.
The TCA house system continues to grow stronger every year, bringing students together through friendship, teamwork, and school spirit. It reminds us that no matter which house we are in, we all share one goal, to make TCA the best it can be. The houses give us a chance to lead, to serve, and to celebrate what makes our school special. That’s what true unity looks like.