If you’ve attended an event at the Sedro-Woolley High School auditorium, chances are you’ve been welcomed by a member of the school’s Usher Club. This small team of four students ensures events run smoothly, from drama productions and concerts to special district ceremonies like Community Night and Retirement Night.
Led by club president Miracle Mahle, the group includes vice president Anthony Bowling and first-year members Clayton Hall and Mehkylee “Mack” Marcoff. Together, they greet guests, assist with seating, and ask guests to follow house rules to preserve the auditorium’s condition.
“What I enjoy most about the Usher Club is realizing the difference we make simply by greeting people and making them feel welcomed,” said Mahle. “Welcoming people and seeing their excitement is why we do it,” added Marcoff and Hall. It’s rewarding to see how much people enjoy the performances.
Bowling said for him, the best part of Usher Club was interacting with the guests.
"Getting to see the smiles on people's faces while greeting them, but mostly making people laugh when they look down," he said.
Behind the Vest
Each usher is outfitted in a crisp white shirt, vest, and bow tie, paired with their own black slacks, socks, and shoes. The dress code reflects the professionalism expected of the role. Beyond appearances, members are trained to accommodate wheelchair users, direct guests, and safely evacuate the building in emergencies.
The commitment pays off: students who volunteer 100 hours earn a varsity letter and an honor cord to wear at graduation. While perks like watching shows are appreciated, the job comes with challenges.
“We have to politely remind folks about rules like no food in the auditorium,” said Hall.
He said this isn't always easy, but it’s important.
Protecting the House
Advisor Nita Hodgins and the school's custodial team work tirelessly to maintain the auditorium, also known as "the House," which was last remodeled in the mid-1990s. Keeping the space clean and welcoming is a priority, which is why food and drinks are prohibited.
When spills happen, it’s a lot of work to clean the seats and carpet. The rules help preserve the space for everyone.
Despite the challenges, ushers say the best part of the role is interacting with the community. Mahle recalled a memory that stood out from her time as an usher:
"We got recognized after the school’s production last year, and someone’s parents got the ushers little gifts for helping usher the whole week," she said.
Bowling said a standout moment from his time in the club was when the group ushered for the school production and got a compliment from the superintendent.
Looking to the Future
With three of the club's four members being seniors, Mahle is hopeful the club will grow next year.
“I definitely hope more people join the Usher Club next year to keep it going,” she said. “If you enjoy helping others, this is a great opportunity to gain experience interacting with people, especially if you are a little shy. It also looks great on a resume.”
Bowling echoed Mahle's thoughts and said he hopes more students will join the club next year.
For those looking for a unique way to get involved and give back, the Usher Club may be the perfect fit.
Students can contact Miss Nita at the ASB cashier's window at the high school or email nhodgins@swsd101.org for more information.
House Rules to Know
🚫 No food or drinks inside the auditorium.
👜 No large bags—leave them at home, in your car, or on the designated table outside.
🚪 Use the upstairs entrance if the downstairs doors are closed after the show begins (please note, for paid shows, tickets still need to be purchased).
📸 No flash photography or video recording—it’s distracting to others.
📵 Silence cell phones before the show.
🚶 Stay seated until intermission or the end, unless there’s an emergency.
🚭 No smoking, vaping, alcohol, or drugs—the campus is substance-free.
👶 With a baby? Sit in the top row for easy exit if needed.
🙋♂️ Be kind to ushers—they’re there to help make your experience enjoyable!