The Return of Homecoming

Cristina Carbone, Around the Horn Staff

Image courtesy of @clarkstownhsnorth on Instagram

“I thought homecoming was very fun and it was a great opportunity to talk to new people and make new friends.” (Samantha Helman, sophomore).


Students start the night off by getting ready at friends' houses. Excitement is in the air as hair is styled, makeup is done, and dresses/suits are picked out. Parents crowd around to take pictures of their dressed-up children. Students slowly file into the main entrance showing IDs and getting stamped on their hands.

The night began with a bit of timidness, as it was the first time Clarkstown High School North had a homecoming in a couple of years. As kids walked into the main gym they were awed at the beautiful decorations. The previously mundane gym was turned into a gorgeous “Neverland,” which was the ongoing theme for the night. Large purple and gold balloon arches hung over the dance floor. The DJ stand had laser-led lights and high-volume speakers so that you could feel the vibrations of the base. There were even QR codes on posters used to vote for homecoming king and queen.

Image courtesy of @clarkstownhsnorth Instagram

Image courtesy of @clarkstownhsnorth Instagram

Dance circles quickly formed and students from all grades gathered to jump around to their favorite songs. Some crowd favorites were “Apple Bottom Jeans,” “Super Freaky Girl,” and “Hot in Herre.” Excitement grew as the dance went on; more and more people joined in, sang along with their favorite songs, and socialized. On the side of the dance floor were refreshments that included some different types of soda and bottled water. But soon, students started filing out to get food from the main cafeteria. The main cafeteria was the busiest it's been; all tables were full to the brim, and lines for food were enormous. The food served included pizza, garlic knots, french fries, and chicken wings. There wasn’t quite enough food for everyone but North’s principal, Mrs. Candace Reim, tried her best to go around to serve everyone delicious cookies. There was even a mocktail stand with different colored Shirley temples. Students returned to the dance floor, with even more energy than before, posing for pictures with the backdrop and on the dance floor. The homecoming court was also introduced with streamers and gold crowns. The winners of homecoming king and queen were Will Heidelberger and Joy Gendy!

Image courtesy of @chsn_studentcouncil Instagram

Image courtesy of Talia Grill

Students enjoying their night!

Flashing lights and fun times could characterize the night. Students from all grades and friend groups joined together to enjoy the dance and each other's company. All students were delighted to have homecoming back, especially underclassmen who don’t have any other school dances during the year. Students started leaving around 8:50 p.m., exhausted after the long night of dancing. It's safe to say that everyone celebrated homecoming and the new beginning of a great school year!