Junior Prom: A Student's Perspective

On May 18th the class of 2025 hosted Junior Prom in the large gym! The event had a cap of 400, nearly doubling the number of juniors from last year so each person could have a plus one. It was not sold out, but it was a great turnout nonetheless for all that made an appearance. Prior to the dance, the Class of ‘25 was busy hanging posters and posting about the dance, while others began the preparations of buying dresses and coordinating pictures. Popular picture locations for friends and family right before the dance were places like Niawanda Park and Niagara Falls. At 10 am the morning of the prom, class members gathered in the gym to hang decorations and make everything look “Hollywood Red Carpet'' ready: a great theme the junior class voted on via a Google form weeks before. Entry to the dance was easy with no line coming through the door, and an uncomplicated walk through the metal detector, followed by a bag search if you brought a small clutch.  Most dances at Kenmore West receive criticism due to the DJ not being up to par, but during this dance, it was not a problem! The DJ played some of KWHS’s favorites like “Cruisin For a Bruisin’” from Teen Beach Movie and ''Bohemian Rhapsody.” The dance was from 7-10 pm. Around 8 pm a snack table was available, with food from sushi and pizza to fruits and veggies, all being free, as well as bottled water to keep students hydrated. In the gym foyer was a backdrop with balloons where students could pose for a photo taken by Mr. Davies which were uploaded for all to view just a few days after the dance. Throughout the night students danced so much—many barefoot or in socks to stay comfortable. There were a few opportunities for slow dances, but the music was mostly upbeat. In the middle of the night, the class advisors announced prom court. Two couples received prom princess and prince: Evangelina Greenwood and Ben Pratt, and Lilianna Foglia and Conor Tyree. The prom queen and king were Addy VanDewater and Alexander Stinner. The recipients received a sash to be worn for the remainder of the dance. Overall, the students had a great time. When the dance came to a close, students were able to look back at a night well spent surrounded by their amazing friends.