The Controversy of a Senior Exclusive Prom
Written by Hannah Niederriter and Amber Holt 3/29/21
The Controversy of a Senior Exclusive Prom
Prom is arguably one of the most memorable events of junior and senior year in high school, but due to current COVID-19 gathering limitations, it was announced by Cranberry High School that prom would solely be open for seniors to attend, at least until the restrictions loosen. This declaration wrought a mixed bag of opinions, and the fairness of this decision has been called into question by numerous juniors and parents.
This year’s prom is scheduled to take place on May 7 at the Glory Barn in Knox. Many students have already planned to attend, excited to take part in the festivities revolving around the theme of “Country Nights.”
On Monday, March 22, an announcement of the senior exclusivity echoed in the halls and every classroom, leaving students baffled, devastated, or even infuriated. Many juniors had already purchased dresses, and some had even started planning their prom day and making hair or nail appointments. Although seniors still have the opportunity to bring younger guests, many couples will no longer be able to attend unless the decision is retracted.
Photography by Kaitlyn Eck
The junior class also played a sizable role in preparing for this year’s prom. In late 2020, many juniors participated in a pie fundraiser; some individuals even earned hundreds of dollars by themselves. The junior class officers have dedicated time to planning the 2021 prom by deciding on the location, decorations, food, and more. Juniors customarily assume the job of decorating and setting up for prom, too, but it is for these reasons that many juniors aren’t satisfied prepping for a dance that they aren’t even permitted to attend.
Matthew Woolcock, a junior who formerly planned to attend prom, stated, “I felt upset, like I was robbed of my junior year. It’s not fair because we’ve been told that it is the senior’s prom since they didn’t have one last year, but does that mean that it will be our prom next year if we don’t have one this year?”
“It’s always been juniors and seniors. Even with the makeshift prom, there were both juniors and seniors. Only half the juniors and half the seniors would go anyways. We’re putting our time and effort into something, and our class can’t even go. It’s basically like throwing a birthday party for yourself and not showing up,” junior Maddy Bunyak explained.
On the flip side, some students have been more understanding of the decision considering the current regulations. Though they may feel disappointed, COVID-19 isn’t something students or staff can control. Prom is also viewed as a gift for the seniors from the juniors regardless of whether or not the juniors attend.
As said by junior Morgan Stover, “I understand that it is the senior’s year, but it would be nice for us to go too. If it is what they have to do to hold prom, then I think it is fair.”
Megan Heckathorne, a senior who still plans to attend prom, added, “I think it’s fair because of the seniors not having a prom last year, but the circumstances are still unfortunate.”
This decision was not made lightly, and it’s the school’s primary concern to keep students safe. The senior exclusivity may not be fair in the eyes of many students, especially juniors. However, there is still the possibility of juniors being able to attend prom if they’re taken as guests or if gathering limitations are lifted to permit a larger number of attendees at an outdoor event. For now, both juniors and seniors alike will have to keep their fingers crossed for more fortunate circumstances and a more inclusive prom.