Our Traditions

Our Big Sister/Little Sister Program pairs senior "Big Sisters" with freshman "Little Sisters," fostering meaningful connections and support throughout the school year. Seniors serve as mentors, offering guidance and encouragement to their Little Sisters as they navigate their first year at Incarnate Word High School. Before the first day of school, our freshmen and seniors are invited to a  Big Sister/ Little Sister Picnic, where they meet for the first time. Big Sisters greet their Little Sisters with a welcome sign and basket, and, of course, with their favorite food and snacks. Through various events and activities like this, the program provides numerous opportunities for Big and Little Sisters to bond, creating lasting friendships and a strong sense of community.

The Back to School Dance is a lively and exciting event hosted by Student Council on our campus to kick off the new school year. Open to all students enrolled in Catholic high schools under the San Antonio Archdiocese, this dance is a celebration of community and fellowship. Students gather for an evening of music, dancing, and fun, creating the perfect atmosphere to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. This cherished event sets a positive tone for the year ahead, welcoming everyone into the vibrant spirit of our school community.

The Freshmen Tie Ceremony is one of the most exciting traditions at Incarnate Word High School, officially welcoming our newest Shamrocks to campus! For the first 2-3 weeks of the school year, freshmen typically do not wear their ties, symbolizing their status as the newest members of our community. During this lively ceremony, each senior “Big Sister” proudly bestows a tie onto her freshman “Little Sister,” officially welcoming her to the IWHS family. Along with the tie, each freshman receives a school crest pin and a year guard featuring her graduation year. This spirited event is filled with joy and excitement, symbolizing the start of lifelong friendships and unforgettable high school memories!

The Sophomore Pin Ceremony marks a significant milestone as our sophomores transition into their roles as leaders and role models for the freshman class. Held at the start of the school year in the McGowen Gym, the sophomore class gathers to celebrate this tradition. Sitting together by advisories, each student is called by name to receive a pin, along with a handshake and well wishes from the Principal. This ceremony symbolizes their achievement of reaching their second year and their commitment to guiding the freshmen. Parents and guests are invited to share in this special occasion, followed by a short reception.

The Senior Sunrise is a beloved tradition at Incarnate Word High School, where our senior class gathers early in the morning to watch the sunrise together on campus. As the first light of day breaks, seniors enjoy a relaxing morning with delicious breakfast baked goods, refreshing drinks, and the camaraderie of their classmates. Dressed in their custom class t-shirts, designed by one of their own, students celebrate the beginning of their final year together, creating lasting memories and kicking off senior year with a sense of unity and excitement.

Spirit Week is a highly anticipated, fun-filled week at Incarnate Word High School, where school pride takes center stage! Hosted by the Student Council, each day of the week is dedicated to a different theme, with students dressing up and showing off their creativity and school spirit. From crazy socks to decade throwbacks, every day is an opportunity for students to express themselves and unite as a community. The excitement builds up to the grand finale—the Green Out game—where our varsity volleyball team takes on our rivals in an electrifying match. It's a week of fun, unity, and Shamrock pride!

Heritage Mass is a cherished tradition at Incarnate Word High School, celebrating the legacy of our founders, the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word. This special Mass honors the CCVI sisters who established our institution in 1881, laying the foundation for the community we cherish today. We invite the CCVI sisters to join us in this meaningful celebration, showing our gratitude for their enduring commitment, compassion, and dedication. Through prayer and reflection, we express our deep appreciation for the sisters' lasting impact on our school and reaffirm our connection to the values and mission they set forth.

At IWHS, the science department enthusiastically celebrates Mole Day, a special event dedicated to Avogadro's number, also known as the "mole," a fundamental unit in chemistry. Held in October, Mole Day brings a fun twist to learning, as students immerse themselves in creative and educational activities. They dress up as moles, the furry animal, and craft various mole-themed creations, all while exploring the significance of Avogadro's number. Through hands-on activities and engaging lessons, students learn about the mole concept and its practical applications in chemistry, making Mole Day both an entertaining and informative celebration of science.

Senior Drape Photos are a special tradition, offering our seniors a unique opportunity to capture their final year in a formal and sophisticated manner. For the yearbook, seniors are treated to a memorable photo session where they don a classic black drape with a pearl necklace, creating a distinguished and elegant look. This special attire sets them apart from the rest of the student body, highlighting their senior status and marking this important milestone with style and grace.

Halloween at Incarnate Word High School is a vibrant celebration that unites the entire school in festive fun! The day begins with Student Council hosting a special event for our Brainpower Connection pre-K 3 and pre-K 4 kids. These young guests enjoy games, win prizes, and go trick-or-treating around campus, spreading joy and excitement.

Throughout the day, students, faculty, and staff join in the Halloween spirit by dressing up in elaborate costumes. The highlight of the day is the spirited pep rally, where the whole student body participates in a lively costume contest with various categories. To top off the celebration, Student Council announces the winners of the Halloween Door Contest, recognizing the advisory with the most creative and festive door decorations. It’s a day filled with Halloween cheer, school pride, and community fun!

Before the Thanksgiving break, Incarnate Word High School hosts a heartwarming Thanksgiving celebration for the entire Shamrock community. The day begins with a special Thanksgiving Mass, where Shamrock families gather to give thanks and reflect on their blessings. Following the Mass, students' parents and loved ones are invited to join us for a delightful Thanksgiving luncheon, featuring classic cuisine that embodies the spirit of the holiday. It’s a cherished opportunity for the IWHS community to come together, share a meal, and celebrate gratitude and togetherness.

Hot Chocolate with Santa is a beloved tradition at Incarnate Word High School, marking the end of the fall semester and the start of the Christmas holiday season. The festivities kick off with a lively morning pep rally, where Student Council members dress up as various Christmas characters, including the cherished Mr. and Mrs. Claus, for photo opportunities. Students also get to show off their holiday spirit in the Christmas Sweater Contest, wearing their most creative or festive Christmas sweaters. Throughout the event, everyone enjoys a selection of delicious cookies, hot chocolate, and other holiday treats. It's a heartwarming celebration filled with festive fun and seasonal cheer!

Semi Formal is a highly anticipated annual dance hosted by the Student Council, inviting all students from 9th to 12th grade to dress up and celebrate in style. Held during the spring semester, this elegant event provides an opportunity for students to wear their finest formal attire and enjoy an evening of music, dancing, and socializing. Students are also welcome to invite guests, adding to the excitement and making the night even more special. It’s a glamorous and memorable occasion where the school community comes together for a night of fun and sophistication.

Word Day is IWHS's thrilling field day dedicated to fun, games, and spirited class competitions. Each grade level participates in a range of activities throughout the day, proudly wearing their designated Word Day shirt colors: freshmen in yellow, sophomores in red, juniors in purple, and seniors in green. Students compete in various games to earn points and advance to the semi-finals. The highlight of the day is the exciting tug of war, where the top grade levels compete for first and second place. The winning class not only earns bragging rights but also the honor of displaying and waving the Word Day flag. It’s a day filled with energy, camaraderie, and school spirit, celebrating teamwork and friendly competition.

Community Service Day is a meaningful event at IWHS dedicated to serving our local community. Each grade level is assigned to a different organization to contribute their time and efforts to various service projects. This day emphasizes the importance of service and servant leadership, reflecting our core value of giving back. Through hands-on activities and volunteer work, students experience the impact of their contributions and strengthen their commitment to making a positive difference in the community. It’s a day that embodies our school's spirit of service and fosters a sense of responsibility and compassion among students

Grace Retreat is an annual school-wide retreat open to all grade levels. As an overnight retreat, this experience aims to explore your relationship with God and build deeper connections with your peers. This unique experience occurs annually in the Spring semester. Whether you are a student who wants to experience this event or lead this event, all are welcome. Grace Retreat leaders are open to students who are involved or are not involved in Peer Ministry.

Father-Daughter Day at IWHS is a special occasion dedicated to strengthening the bonds between our students and their fathers. The day is filled with a variety of fun outdoor and indoor activities designed for dads and their daughters to enjoy together. From engaging games to creative challenges, there’s something for everyone to have a great time. Participants are also treated to a delicious lunch and receive exclusive or limited-edition Father-Daughter Day merchandise. It’s a memorable day that celebrates the unique relationship between fathers and daughters while creating lasting memories and deepening their connection.

Mother-Daughter Day at IWHS is a cherished event designed to celebrate and strengthen the bond between our students and their mothers. The day features a delightful luncheon where mothers and daughters can enjoy a special meal together. In addition to the meal, the event includes a variety of fun indoor activities, such as creative crafts, that allow for quality time and shared experiences. Participants also receive exclusive Mother-Daughter Day merchandise, making the occasion even more memorable. It’s a day filled with joy, connection, and appreciation for the special relationship between mothers and daughters.

The Junior Ring Ceremony is a significant event at IWHS, celebrating the junior class as they transition into their roles as the school’s future leaders. Held in the spring at the Mother House Chapel, located near the University of the Incarnate Word campus, this ceremony is a momentous occasion where juniors are presented with their class rings by their sponsor(s). The event is a cherished milestone, symbolizing their growth and leadership journey. Families and loved ones are warmly invited to join in this special celebration, honoring the accomplishments and leadership potential of our juniors as they take on their new responsibilities.

Prom is a highly anticipated and elegant dance hosted by the junior class officers, serving as a special gift to the seniors and marking their final high school dance. This memorable evening, exclusively for juniors and seniors, takes place in a beautifully decorated venue and features an unforgettable night of dancing and celebration. It’s a cherished tradition that allows seniors to enjoy their last high school dance in style, creating lasting memories with friends and peers before they graduate.

Senior Painted Skirts is a cherished tradition at IWHS that takes place on the seniors' last day of school. On this special day, seniors adorn their school skirts with vibrant colors, mascots, and symbols representing the university or college they will attend in the fall. This colorful display celebrates their achievements and future plans, showcasing their school spirit and excitement for the next chapter. It's a festive and memorable way for seniors to express their pride and anticipation as they bid farewell to their high school journey.

Senior Appreciation Day at IWHS is a heartfelt celebration dedicated to honoring our graduating seniors. The day begins with a morning brunch, where seniors dress in their Sunday best and are treated to a delightful array of specialty foods and drinks. During the brunch, a senior speaker reflects on the class's unique journey to senior year, followed by a nostalgic senior slideshow showcasing photos from freshman year through senior year.

After the brunch, the seniors take their Senior Walk, a meaningful last walk down the main hallway of the school, symbolizing their farewell to high school. They are greeted by the entire student body, holding signs of good luck and well wishes. The celebration continues with a special presentation by the freshman class, reenacting the seniors' journey from freshman to senior year.

The day concludes with the final Big Sister/Little Sister Picnic, where the seniors are treated by their Little Sisters, who bring them food and gifts, mirroring the welcome they received at the beginning of the year. Senior Appreciation Day is a touching tribute, filled with gratitude, reflection, and joy, celebrating the seniors' accomplishments and the bonds they've formed throughout their high school journey.

The Alumnae Induction Ceremony and Celebration at IWHS is a memorable event that marks the transition of seniors into the IWHS Alumnae Association. During the ceremony, each senior is called by name, with their intended university or college announced, and is pinned with the official alumna pin by past alumnae, welcoming them into the next chapter of their involvement at IWHS. In addition to receiving their pin, each senior is gifted a special token from the Alumnae Association, symbolizing their enduring connection to the school.

Following the induction, a celebratory party takes place, where seniors are treated to fabulous specialty foods from local vendors across San Antonio. This celebration is a warm and festive way to welcome the new alumnae, honoring their achievements and celebrating their continued journey as part of the IWHS community. It’s a day filled with joy, connection, and excitement as the newest alumnae join a sisterhood that lasts a lifetime.

Baccalaureate Mass is a heartfelt tradition at IWHS, marking the seniors' last Mass together before graduation. Held at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church, this special event invites family and friends to join in celebrating the seniors' journey and achievements. During the Mass, a significant moment is the announcement of the Archbishop Medallion recipient for IWHS. This honor is bestowed upon a student who has demonstrated a profound commitment to helping the school and community encounter the Gospel of Jesus Christ, while promoting Catholic teachings and values.

The Archbishop Medallion, featuring the Archbishop’s coat-of-arms and crest, is the highest honor a Catholic high school senior can receive. This recognition highlights students who embody and live out the core values of Catholic education: faith, service, community, and academic excellence. Baccalaureate Mass is a beautiful and meaningful way to celebrate the seniors' faith journey and their readiness to embrace the future with purpose and grace.

Graduation at IWHS is a distinguished ceremony that marks the culmination of our seniors' high school journey. Held on a weekend at the University of the Incarnate Word, this event invites family and friends to celebrate and send off our seniors for the last time. The ceremony begins with a unique and memorable tradition: a bagpipe procession. Led by bagpipers, the seniors make their way from the Student Engagement Center to the entrance of the Convocation Center. As they proceed to their seats, the stirring sounds of the bagpipes set the tone for this momentous occasion.

During the ceremony, each senior is called up one by one to receive their diploma, with special recognition given to those with distinctions such as Valedictorian, Salutatorian, and the Top Ten Percent. Both the Valedictorian and Salutatorian deliver heartfelt speeches, reflecting on their high school experiences and inspiring their peers. A guest speaker also shares words of wisdom, motivating the graduates to go forth and make a positive impact on the future. Graduation is a beloved tradition, celebrating the achievements of our seniors and the bright futures that await them.

Changing of the Chairs is a lively and entertaining tradition at IWHS that marks the transition of each grade to their next year. Throughout the school year, students sit in specific areas of the McGowen Gym for events and Masses based on their grade level. During this event, each grade choreographs a dance to a chosen song, and as they perform, they move to their new seating area, symbolizing their advancement to the next grade level. Students dress up in creative outfits, adding to the fun and excitement of the occasion. It's an amusing and joyful celebration that captures the spirit of progress and unity among the students.

Monogrammed Ties are a special tradition at IWHS that honors our seniors. At the end of the school year, juniors turn in their school ties, and as they become seniors, they receive new ties with their initials and graduation year monogrammed on them. This personalized touch is a unique privilege reserved for seniors, symbolizing their leadership and achievements. The monogrammed ties are worn proudly throughout the year, serving as a distinguished mark of their senior status and a reminder of their journey at IWHS.