Wondering why bagpipes echo across this Washington campus? Shorecrest High School is more than just a school. It is a place steeped in Scottish tradition.
Shorecrest High School opened its doors in 1961. It welcomed 840 students and 43 teachers. The first graduating class celebrated in 1964. It included 359 students.
The school needed a name. Cindy White a sixth-grader from Morgan Junior High won an essay contest. Her suggestion Shorecrest High School perfectly described the location. The school sits on a hill crest. It also borders Lake Washington. This location also inspired the nickname Highlanders.
Students chose the school colors. Forest green navy blue and old gold won. These colors connect to Scotland’s Clan Gordon tartan. Shorecrest students became known as the Highlanders.
In 1967 Shorecrest sought permission from Lord Huntley. He was the Chief of the Clan Gordon. Shorecrest requested to use the clan’s colors and symbols. Permission was granted. Shorecrest became representatives of the Clan Gordon. The school embraced Scottish traditions.
Listen closely. You might hear the Shorecrest bagpipe band. The music department offers bagpipes as a class. Students even receive credit for playing. The Pipers lead the Highlander Marching Band. When they play Scotland the Brave it is tradition to stand and clap.
The Highlander Marching Band includes over 100 musicians. Lassies and Flags accompany them. Band members wear traditional Clan Gordon kilts and uniforms. The band has performed in many parades and events. They have won prestigious awards. The drum line wears red jackets.
The Piper is Shorecrest’s official symbol. You will see it on school publications. A live piper often appears at school events. Otis the fighting Scot is the official mascot. Otis cheers on the Scots at athletic competitions. Look for his mural in the gym.
Originally students were known as Highlanders. Newspapers shortened it to Scots. This was because Highlanders took up too much space.
Shorecrest’s crest is the Clan Gordon coat of arms. The crest displays two mottos. Bydand means resilience. Animo Non Astutia means by courage not cunning. The crest hangs in the school entrance.
The Shorecrest colors appear in the Clan Gordon tartan. This tartan is worn by performing groups. The marching band and pipers wear kilts of this tartan. Faculty members sometimes wear it too.
Shorecrest High School is unique. It blends education with Scottish heritage. It is a place where students learn and celebrate tradition. Shorecrest continues to see far work closely and create choices. It builds excellence. We are Shorecrest.