During sixth period this past Monday, the aroma of freshly baked ham and cinnamon rolls filled the halls at Wilsonville High School, signaling the return of a cherished tradition. Every year, as Thanksgiving approaches, Mr. Esqueda’s life class joins together in their own celebration of gratitude. Because Esqueda teaches a senior Life class, this year’s event felt like an extra-special final hurrah to the tradition as students prepare to part ways next year.
November 17th 2025 marked this year’s annual Esqueda life class Thanksgiving. The day was filled with homemade baked goods, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, even a baked ham. The ceremony was planned weeks prior, where every student in the class was tasked with an item of food to bring.
For many students the food was just the beginning, the true meaning of the day came from the community built over the past three years. In a year full of lasts for these students, it’s important to cherish every moment—especially every final opportunity to bond with other classmates.
Mr. Esqueda explained, “I think year by year it’s gotten better as far as contributions to the potluck, as well as you guys looking forward to it, like you guys asking me if we were going to do it.”
When asked about the event’s contributions to overall class bonding, he noted, “Yes I think it has helped in the sense of breaking down barriers, like people who usually don’t talk to each other talk to each other, or at least hear each other more often.”
“For me it’s also a skill that we’re developing, in a sense of being able to be together, talk to each other and not be so screen oriented. It’s also a skill to learn how to potluck. If everyone brings potato chips, no one’s gonna eat.”
He said, “I’ve noticed a lot more effort into the things people are bringing, and like I said earlier there was more you guys wanting to do this than it being my idea. And so I think naturally, like it’s your guys’ senior year, I think you guys are starting to realize this is going to be the last one, and there’s a lot of last’s coming. And so I think that’s what that’s what I’ve seen develop, and so I think there’s more of an effort put into it.”
Esqueda and his life class started this tradition back in 2023, when the current seniors were sophomores. This was not only Esqueda’s first year teaching at Wilsonville, but also the first year the district implemented Life classes – a program designed to develop real-world skills and build community – as a requirement for students.
Michael Esqueda explained, “So it came about when we started sophomore year. Getting you guys as sophomores, who were uncomfortable talking with each other, to talk to each other. And I thought what better way than with food.”
Senior Vaani Aga has been in Esquedas life class since the beginning. She commented, “We brought food, said what we were thankful for, there was music and a movie, and it was just a fun time to hang out with our friends. I think this year was the most organized and well put together, and everyone actually brought food this year. I think it was a really cute way to interact with our class.”
Senior Mia Winters explained, “I’m not even a part of Mr. E’s life class, yet every year I still feel included. The first year he was hesitant to let me and some other students that also aren’t in the class in, but this year we have come to an agreement, if I bring something I can come.”
Overall, Esqueda’s thanksgiving has a greater significance than just a table full of food. It represents all of the relationships, bonds and experiences that have brought the class together over the past three years. As these seniors prepare for the next chapter of their lives, this potluck serves as a celebration of new beginnings, as well as an appreciation for all the memories they have made throughout high school.