GCPS high schools perform at the ACC Women's Basketball Tournament

     Nearly 3,000 Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) students brought excitement and school pride to Gas South Arena as they took part in the ACC Women’s Basketball Tournament held over three action-packed days. Students from 50 schools filled the arena, cheering loudly and representing their clusters with enthusiasm.

     The performances began each day with powerful musical moments from GCPS chorus programs. Students from Archer, Brookwood, and Lanier high schools took turns singing the national anthem, creating memorable starts to each game. For many singers, the experience was unforgettable.

     Archer High School student Alyse Van Doorn shares, “Performing the national anthem at such a major event made me feel important and happy to be a part of something so big.” Her classmate, Loryn Foster, had a different perspective as a first‑time game attendee. “I’ve never been to a basketball game before, so seeing everything in action and in person was a cool experience. I’m glad our mastery chorus was considered,” Foster shared. For others, the performance brought a surge of emotion.

     Archer’s Tiara Vargas-Paz adds, “I was filled with nerves, pride, and excitement. This was definitely a monumental moment in my choral career because of the gravity and viewership of this event.” Archer’s Grace McEver adds, “… when we hit those harmonies just right, it felt incredible.”

     While the chorus students take center stage on different days, the Norcross High School JROTC color guard also plays a key role in the three‑day tournament. Dylan Avila reflects on the honor:
“Performing at the ACC Tournament meant that my color guard team—and the program I am a member of—were selected to perform at a very special event. It was a pleasure to present the colors, especially with the event being hosted in our home state.”

     Behind all the excitement, there was a deeper connection that had been building for weeks. Each ACC team was paired with an elementary school from one of four GCPS clusters—Duluth, Collins Hill, Peachtree Ridge, and Meadowcreek. Players and coaches reached out through video chats, phone calls, and by sending team paraphernalia, helping students feel personally connected to “their” ACC team before the first tipoff.

     Brookwood High School lead chorus teacher Carter Still says these types of opportunities help students grow far beyond the classroom.

     “Opportunities like this performance allow our students to take learning outside of the classroom, putting their craft into the real world,” Still shares. “Performances like these help students build confidence and community through a shared experience.”