Last week, students and staff teamed up to turn South High into a spooky celebration for this year’s Nightmare on L Street, the school’s annual Halloween event. Families from across the community came dressed in their best costumes to enjoy games, candy and plenty of fun. Students and teachers worked together to create a night full of festive decorations, treats and smiles.

Samantha Koehler-Overton, one of the event’s organizers, shared the story behind Nightmare on L Street.

The idea began in 2018 after Educators Rising sponsors attended a professional development meeting with teachers from other Omaha Public Schools who hosted similar events. Once the plan was approved by South’s administration, several student organizations came together to make it happen. The first event took place in the cafeteria, but it became so popular that it had to move to the gym the next year.

According to Koehler-Overton, the goal has always been to bring the community together and give school organizations such as Educators Rising, Student Council, DECA and NHS a fun way to work as a team while creating a safe and exciting Halloween experience for local kids.

Students also played a major role in organizing and running the event.

Senior Andrea Chacón Herrera, a member of Educators Rising, described the night as “a community get-together—family-friendly and well organized by South clubs and students.” Herrera added that the haunted house, themed tables, and all the treats and prizes make it “super spooky” and “a really fun and thrilling experience.”

Herrera said their favorite part was seeing everyone dressed up in creative costumes, explaining that it “really brings the event to life and makes it enjoyable for everyone.” They added that the event is important because it “brings people together, creates a fun and unique experience, and lets students show off their creativity and talent.”

Senior Emmanuel Galindo, also a member of Educators Rising, said Nightmare on L Street is “a night where the community gets together in a lively and welcoming atmosphere to enjoy an event-filled night.” His favorite part, he said, was cheering for children when they won prizes at his station, adding that making them happy was rewarding.

Galindo said the event is important for South because it helps build stronger community relationships and gives people a chance to connect and celebrate together over candy and fun.

Missed this year’s event? Be sure to stop by next year for a night full of games, candy and Halloween fun!