Canon Events Exclusively in Ferguson

At a school as big as Ferguson, some things just become part of the experience. Whether you are a freshman still figuring it all out or a senior counting down your last days, there are certain moments and traditions that pretty much every student goes through. They are not written in the rules, but they are well known—and if you have been here long enough, you have probably lived at least a few of them. We call them Ferguson Cannon Events. These are the kinds of things that turn into inside jokes, random memories, and stories you will end up telling your friends even after graduation. Some are weird, some are funny, and some just make you think, “Only in Ferguson.”

Let’s start with an obvious one: getting lost on the first day. Everyone has been there. With the school’s layout, it is surprisingly easy to get turned around, even if you think you have the map memorized. On your first day, you might think you are heading straight to math class in the 12 building only to find yourself standing in front of the main building wondering how you got there. And if you are not careful, you could easily find yourself wandering down the 500, 600, or 700 hallways in the wrong direction, trying to figure out which way leads to 10 building for English. The layout seems simple enough once you get used to it, but navigating it for the first time can feel like a maze. Eventually, you learn which buildings are which, where the hallways lead, and how to avoid accidentally ending up in the wrong place—but those first few days are definitely a challenge!

Then there are the golf carts blasting music during passing time. They cruise through lunch parade style, and at this point, no one questions it. It’s usually Rob behind the wheel, playing music—whether it is reggaeton, early 2000s throwbacks, or whatever else he is in the mood for. It makes walking to class or grabbing lunch feel a little less boring. Sometimes, you will even see Ms. Barnett in the passenger seat, adding to the fun.

Another classic: students eating ramen noodles in class. They grab the noodles from the concession stand, already prepped and ready to go, and bring them straight to class. The smell of the broth wafts through the room, and teachers usually let it happen. It is random, but no one seems surprised when it happens anymore. Whether it is during class or as a quick snack, ramen has become one of those unspoken traditions, and it is simply routine now.

Every morning before the first bell, the alma mater plays over the speakers. Most people just keep walking, but everyone knows it—it has been drilled into our brains since freshman year. It is one of those small traditions that quietly sticks with you, whether you realize it or not. And if you are one of the few who can recite the whole thing on the spot, word for word, you might even score a free Croc charm from Ms. Barnett. It is a little challenge that turns into a badge of honor, proving just how deep Ferguson culture runs.

After school, Menchie’s is the unofficial hangout spot. If you are grabbing frozen yogurt or just chilling with friends, it is one of those simple routines that makes the school day feel complete. It actually used to be McDonald’s, but so many students would crowd in after the bell that they started locking the doors until the wave passed. Now, Menchie’s has taken the spot as the go-to place—less chaotic and still close by.

Pep rallies are loud, packed, and usually chaotic, but they bring everyone together. It is one of the few times the entire school actually gets hyped at the same time, from screaming chants to chatting with your friends. The most exciting moments always come from the cheerleaders and the Fusion dancers, who bring the energy every single time. And of course, there are several pep rally traditions like freshmen sneaking into the senior section to get a glimpse of the upperclassman’s prime rally spot. 

Fergie only makes his rounds with the blood drive droplet when there is an actual blood drive happening, which makes his appearances feel like a signal to the whole school. You will see him walking through the cafeteria, down the hallways, and even stopping by classrooms, always with the big red droplet. It is not just for fun. His whole mission is to remind and encourage students to sign up and donate. The droplet is meant to stand out, to get attention, and it works. Students see it and know exactly what is going on. It is one of those small but impactful traditions that helps keep school spirit and community involvement alive.

The concession stands are an essential part of lunchtime at Ferguson, each with its own charm. One is located by the gym, where Shanower and a few students handle the crowds. This is where you can grab a variety of snacks, drinks, and of course, the ever-popular ramen. Shanower has made it a bit of a tradition to toss whatever you order directly at you, so don’t be surprised if you are expected to catch your snack mid-air. It has become part of the fun and anticipation of getting your snack. On the other stand, located by the auditorium, is a go-to place where students pick up balloons for special occasions, pick out gifts for friends, and find rare specials ranging from Victoria’s Secret perfume to small care-packages. Whether it is someone’s birthday, a school event, or just a random celebration, there is always a line of people grabbing colorful balloons to mark the moment. Both stands are packed with students trying to get their quick meals or treats before heading back to class, making them a staple of the Ferguson lunchtime routine.

Falcon Express is a true hidden gem at Ferguson, especially on A-day. Arguelles’s room is the classic spot for anyone craving a warm tostada or a strong cup of café con leche to start the morning. You can either email your order and have it delivered straight to your class, or—if your teacher allows it—you might get permission to go pick it up yourself. Some teachers go the extra mile, placing bulk orders for the whole class in one email and handing the money over when the students drop it off. It is a smooth and small system that turns an ordinary morning into something worth looking forward to. Whether you are sipping café con leche during a class or watching someone walk in with a tray full of tostadas, Falcon Express has become one of those quiet, but comforting staples of Ferguson life.

Ferguson has its own rhythm- one made up of the small, specific things you don’t usually see anywhere else. It is the sound of the alma mater playing before first period or the smell of café con leche from Falcon Express making its way down the hall. It’s watching freshmen try to sneak into the senior section during pep rallies, grabbing ramen from the concession stand, and hearing music echo from a golf cart as you walk to class. None of it feels like a big deal at the moment, but when you look back, those are the memories that never fade away. They are not only events—they are what give Ferguson its character, and if you have experienced even a few, you already know: you are living the Ferguson experience.