ASB held its second movie night this Monday resulting in a turnout that brought students from all grade levels together for a cozy and memorable event. Despite having a few repercussions during preparation, leadership worked through them to ensure the night ran smoothly. Blankets were scattered across the gymnasium as students gathered to watch a holiday classic, Home Alone. Students shared their thoughts about the atmosphere and the improvements made from the last Movie Night.

This week’s event was planned shortly after the first movie night back in October on San Leandro High’s main campus football field. The leadership class took student preferences into account, especially feedback about the cold weather during the outdoor screening at the main campus field.

“We wanted to make sure that they had a warm place,” said Bela Martin, ASB President. “That’s why we have it inside the gym.”

Another thing that changed was the food options. After receiving commentary from students that the food vendors did not offer affordable options at the previous event, ASB decided to partner up with other San Leandro High Academies to sell more affordable options for students while supporting fundraising efforts. 

“We also have different food options, because last time there were food trucks, but there were no cheap options,” Martin said.  “So now we have ASB selling a dollar, cup of noodles, some hot cocoa, BA is selling pizza for like a dollar. And then we still have our free popcorn, of course, catering to our community.”

Sophomore Janelle Morales shared her thoughts, highlighting the positive and the negative aspects of the new setting. She appreciated the warm environment but felt the smaller space could have affected the turnout.

“One negative thing is I think it affected the amount of people who showed up because of the size difference of the setting,” Morales said. “But a positive is the gym was way warmer than being on the field.” 

Another student, Freshman Meilani Pulini, shared a similar positive experience, appreciating both the environment and the chance to enjoy the event with friends. 

“This week’s movie night was chill, there weren’t too many people and it felt nice to have it in the gym,” said Pulini. “I think the change from the field to FTK is better since I feel like outside it’s more cold and you wouldn’t really hear the movie as well. Me and my friends did enjoy it, we all had fun with each other watching the movie”  

Even with the mixed feelings of attendance, students’ overall impression with leadership’s holiday movie night remained positive. Many attendees appreciated the warmth, better sound audio and inclusive food options. With feedback provided, ASB is considering planning a Spring Movie Night, continuing their efforts to create inclusive events for the student body.