Inside Birmingham Seaholm's 90th Anniversary Celebration

Homecoming at Birmingham Seaholm High School is always a big deal, but this year's festivities take on extra meaning as the school celebrates 90 years of service to the Birmingham area. 

Punctuating the celebration is tonight's huge rivalry game against Birmingham Groves at 7 p.m. in a battle of undefeated teams. If you go, come early for a tailgate sponsored by the Birmingham Education Foundation. The annual homecoming dance is from 8-11 p.m. Saturday.    

Rosemary Ricelli Scheidt, 90th Field Day Parade Chair, recently told Birmingham Patch about the effort to mark the special anniversary.


How did the idea of this celebration generate, and why do you feel it's important to mark this anniversary? 

Our Principal, Deanna Barash, had the idea of celebrating this 90 year milestone with a Parade through the streets.  From the 1920's to 1960's the students marched through the streets of Birmingham on Field Day.  Even in 1970-1990's students marched outdoors. We wanted to honor that wonderful tradition.  Any event that has taken place for 90 years is worthy of a special celebration.

How many people are on your committee and have been involved in making this a reality?

A large planning committee of students, parents, staff and alumni was formed last April to brainstorm elements of the 90th Field Day and Homecoming weekend. 

Ninety years is quite an accomplishment, and that's a lot of alumni. How many people did you contact, and how did you go about tracking people down?

The district has an extensive data base of Seaholm alumni. Our contacts through Birmingham Schools have reached over 8,000 alumni. Additionally, we have our own Seaholm Alumni Weekend Facebook page that has been viewed by over 3,000 different alumni.

What surprised you?

The generosity and gracious support of  our community:  the First Presbyterian Church, First United Methodist Church, Birmingham Police, Birmingham City Commission and our resident neighbors. 


Why do think so many people love and feel such a strong connection to Seaholm?

There is so much to love about Seaholm. Our students feel they are a part of a family while at Seaholm. Events like Field Day, homecoming, dances, musicals, athletics and clubs help everyone find their niche. The alumni build bonds that last a lifetime.