School dances have been a staple of the high school experience for a long time; prom night, homecoming, as well as spring and winter formals. This is typically shown in TV shows and movies as a milestone event in a teenagers life.
Some students still cherish the chance to dress up, dance with friends, and create lasting memories, while others see school dances as outdated, awkward, or even exclusionary. As culture continues to evolve, it’s worth examining whether these traditional events still hold value to students.
“Spirit week builds up excitement throughout the school and brings everyone together,” Lily Arnberg (12) said.
This sense of unity is one of the main reasons that school dances still hold high value. In an age where digital interactions are most common, school dances offer students that real world connection that some might not get to experience often. While academics dominate the daily agenda, school dances give students something to look forward to outside of the classroom.
“I think getting dressed up and having events the prior week leading up to the dance, like spirit weeks, makes it more fun. I feel like it makes people more engaged,” Rudi Wilson (12) said.
For many, attending school dances is an important life experience that offers a sense of tradition and creates lasting memories with peers. While this digital generation has changed the way people connect with others, the experience of getting ready and attending a school dance remains a milestone in many people’s lives.
“I feel like school dances are a fun way to get the school together. I kind of forget the stresses of what is going on in our school life and just have a good time together,” Wilson said.
In a world where stress, social anxiety, and academic pressure weigh heavily on students, events like prom or homecoming can serve as a much deserved release.
Dances give students a break from the grind, a night to celebrate being young, and a rare opportunity to unplug from screens and connect with peers in person.
“It’s a chance for everyone to get together and have fun as a school. I definitely think there should be more emphasis on it, I’ve been hearing that they are getting less popular which makes me sad,” Arnberg said.
Despite the growing concern that school dances are losing popularity, many students still recognize their importance as they are large community building events. Many students also don’t participate in school dances due to the high pricing of tickets, dresses, and many other things.
“I would say they are all pretty affordable. I know there are different options for ways to get cheaper dresses,” Wilson said.
Between tickets, outfits, accessories, transportation, and sometimes even professional hair and makeup, the expenses can add up quickly, especially for events like prom. For students on a tight budget, the pressure to keep up with trends can feel overwhelming.
Although Highlands and community businesses offer discounted dresses, and cheaper options, the financial barrier still prevents many from participating fully.
“I think our prom was really fun. Maybe a change of location but the aquarium was great because there were so many different things to do depending on what you like,” Arnberg said.
School dances continue to hold relevance in high school culture because they offer students a chance to socialize in a structured setting.
These events can be a break from academic stress and a way to build community spirit. As long as students are reminded of the importance, dances can remain meaningful and memorable experiences.
“There is always room to adapt and change things but I think they are fundamental for a high school,” Arnberg said.
