For the first time in 50 years, snow fell on CHS’s campus on Wednesday, March 1st, 2023. Students rushed out of their classes and started to have photo shoots in the middle of the quads to remember the historical day. Across social media, posts flooded the feeds of CHS students from all the excitement of the snowfall. Students jumped at the opportunity to relax and play in the little amount of snow CHS saw. The sparse amount did not matter because the mere thought of any snow on campus is shocking for Claremont residents.
Students and staff both agree on the rarity of the snow and, to some, it was one of those “you had to be there” moments to really understand the excitement and child-like energy in the atmosphere. Mr. Barcelona, a history teacher at CHS, explained how he felt.
“I was shocked to see it and it was definitely the first time I have seen snow in Claremont,” Mr. Barcelona said. “It was a unique experience I’m sure we will talk about for years to come.”
Warm, dry conditions are extremely common in Claremont but rain, hail, and snow are not so common. With the most recent snowfall in Claremont prior to March 1st being in 1972, CHS students were able to witness history. Not only did the snow change Claremont history, but it also helped bring students together, even if it was just for five minutes during fourth period.
“There are few moments when everyone feels super unified and has the same feelings towards things but everyone thought being out in the snow was a great idea,” Mr. Barcelona said.
At the sight of the first flake falling from the sky, students’ demeanors changed and many reverted to a child-like state: throwing snowballs, making snow angels on the football field, running around, and taking pictures in the snow. A lighthearted atmosphere was present on campus. CHS Sophomore, Sophia Vandenvrijhoef experienced the snow firsthand.
“It was a magical experience that made everyone feel like kids again,” Sophia Vandenvrijhoef said.
Though snow may be something CHS experiences again, hopefully, it won’t take another 50 years for it to fall. But, if it does, maybe this article will be helpful in imagining the feelings CHS students once had about the winter-wonderland conditions.
