Schools as a Sense of Normalcy

Despite the unfavorable conditions in schools during the war years, schools continued to put on events, such as mixers, concerts, and carnivals. Sometimes the mixers would be themed, such as Sadie Hawkins day, where the girls had to invite a boy or pay a fine. The high schools sometimes combined drama and music, with short plays being performed, followed by the school’s orchestra. Carnivals typically involved different types of student performances, such as fashion shows and athletic displays, along with displays from classes and clubs. Often these events were used to further the war effort through proceeds going to the Red Cross, or purchasing a War Savings stamp in order to enter.¹

School clubs and sports teams were also maintained. In 1940 clubs at Surrey High School included the Chemistry Club, the Handicraft Club, and the Personal Appearance Club. Members of the personal appearance club campaigned for a full-length mirror to be installed in the girl’s bathroom, and created booklets on manicuring, posture, and complexion. The high schools also maintained their own newspapers, including Lord Tweedsmuir High School’s newspaper, “The Buzz.” The local high schools still competed against each other in various sports such as basketball and volleyball. Additionally, within schools teams were created to compete against one another.²