Bingham is known for its many traditions, and one of these traditions is the Pinning Ceremony.

In order to obtain a pin, it requires a person to be pretty deeply invested into one section of the school, whether it’s dance, Language Arts, or theater. Pinning ceremonies can be held in many different areas. Sometimes it’s in the Alumni room, other times it’s in a place more relevant to why the person is receiving the pin or if the group is too large for the small room.

Holden Potter, a Bingham junior who has received four pins during his time thus far at Bingham High School, had the ceremony for his three pins gained due to marching in the very fitting location of the band room. His other one, which was received for being part of the pit orchestra during this year’s school musical, Curtains, was given to him in the Copper Pit. There have even been times when pinnings have been held at South Jordan Middle School for students who are involved in Bingham activities there.

Like many things at Bingham High School, the pinning ceremony is entrenched in tradition. The idea of the pinnings is to show the legacy of Bingham High School and was started in the 80’s. At a recent pinning ceremony for the swim team, Principal Richards Khong described it as being for “…the dedication and efforts in supporting our school.”

Zoee Paras, a Bingham senior who has received three pings herself said that typically the principal and most, if not all, of the Vice principals are present for the ceremony. The supervisors that were involved with the activity are there as well. When Paras received her Mountain Biking pin her coach came, and when Potter attended the ceremony for his marching band pins the majority of the band staff showed up.

When receiving a pin there’s another little tradition that one does. They initiate a handshake with one of the vice principals that represents a pick and a shovel and, after saying thank you, say ‘it’s a great day to be a miner.’ After this there are refreshments given out to the people present, sometimes cinnamon buns, sometimes cookies or brownies, and there’s a chance for the students to more or less bask in their own achievement.

It can be an odd experience for someone new to pinning ceremonies. Paras stated, “The first time I got pinned, I thought it was a little weird, but after that, I was happy that I was being recognized for my accomplishments by the school.” People also do different things with their pins after receiving them. For instance, some of the marching band kids put them on their band jackets Paras puts hers on her desk at home. I personally collect pins on a scarf in my room where I can see them as I get 5ready for the day.

Pinnings are just one of the many deep and rich traditions of Bingham High School and are an example of something that pulls groups of the schools together. They’re a way that the school shows that they see students working hard and putting time and effort into events that aren’t mandatory for your graduation, but that does help to enrich your experience at Bingham High School.