Ledyard High School, like any high school, has its own tips and tricks, its own hidden gems, rough riders, and its own mysteries that we will debunk, accredit, and absorb. In today’s article, we will look at the top 5 Hidden Gems and whether they are diamonds in the rough or if their validity will crumble under the pressure.

Number 5. Pool on The Third Floor

One of the biggest hidden gems comes from Ledyard High School folklore that dates back decades. Often, when students are new to Ledyard High School, upperclassmen ship out the narrative that there is a pool on the third floor. In recent years, it has even developed into the narrative that you can take the elevator to the third floor and introduce yourself to the pool. This is not true and simply just a light dose of jokes on the freshmen.

Number 4: Outdoor Sports Events

While all sports events at Ledyard are a spectacle, our outdoor events just bring a different atmosphere of spirit. Dressing up for that game’s student section theme, and seeing how everyone dressed for it, is always so much fun. Feeling the natural air while cheering on your school, getting some of the delicious concessions, or just hanging out with your friends, a football game or softball game will show you a mighty good time.

Number 3: Turtle Population 

In a small corner of Ledyard High School is the Agricultural wing accompanied by all types of classes.  In this wing of the school lies a small population of nine Red Eared Slider Turtles that swim, eat, and tan in the playground of the Ledyard Ag-wing. Turtle Town is a popular place to cool off or get over a writer’s block. 

Number 2: School Events

Ledyard’s four class councils, as well as clubs, organize different fundraisers and events including movie night, coffee houses, and the powder puff events. Most years there is a trip to a foreign country with Spain and France being locations traveled to in past years. This year the school  hosted three ski trips all to Wachusett Mountain Ski Area followed by great reviews from students. School sanctioned events always hold something good in store, so do as many as you can!

Number 1: Food Customization 

While there are a lot of people who will take a dig at our school food, the lunch crew ain’t nothin’ to mess with. The lunch crew creates fully customizable deli sandwiches as well as walking tacos with ingredients of your choice. With five condiments and four herbs and spices, any meal you make is  customizable to make some sweet sweet grub even more delicious.

Ledyard High School may not be seen as the best of schools but it works its hardest to provide a fun and safe environment for all students. Take a swing at every opportunity given to you. During a rough school day, any of these hidden gems can pick you up or give you something to look forward to.

Senior Billy Sharpe is a staff writer for the 2024-2025 Colonel Newsmagazine. He enjoys writing stories and making music. He also indulges in multiple sports.