As prom approaches, students and staff are working together to shape an exciting and unforgettable experience. This year’s prom planning progress has been mainly student-driven, with prom court members taking on key responsibilities. They divided the tasks equally amongst members of the court, ensuring everyone contributes to making the night a success.
“We chose to split everything up,” prom court member Ashley Dretske said. “Some of us are focusing on decorations, while others help with programs or organizing. We also take care of setting up and taking everything down.”
Although court leads a majority of prom, they are greatly supported by Prom Adviser Andi Woyak, and high school staff Becky Retzlaff. Woyak oversees ideas, coordinates communication and items that need to be bought.
“I supervise the process and help coordinate details like ordering decorations, organizing the grand march, and managing forms,” Woyak said.
Planning the dance began shortly after prom court members were selected, about three weeks in advance. Members first focused on choosing a theme, one of the most important decisions in the process. The court narrowed down their theme options to Paris, disco, and Las Vegas, but the final choice was put to a vote amongst all students.
This year’s winning theme is Las Vegas. For the grand march the auditorium will feature a red and black classic casino aesthetic, while the actual dance will transform into a neon-lit Las Vegas strip.
“We’re using a lot of lights, dice, and card-themed decorations,” Dretske said. “There will also be props like neon signs and even small details like temporary tattoos and light-up accessories to make it more fun.”
To stay within budget, decorations from previous years will be reused, and additional items will be ordered as needed. Prom is self-funded through ticket sales, ticket prices are set to $10 in advance and $15 at the door.
Inclusivity has also been a huge priority throughout the planning process. Even students who aren’t on court have the opportunity to participate by helping with decorating and setting up.
“If you want to be involved, you can be,” prom court member Lakelyn Sobieski said. “It’s open to anyone who wants to contribute.”
Prom Court members also take on the responsibility of setting up multiple days up to the event and cleaning up afterwards. As an incentive, participants receive reimbursement for their tickets.
The event will also feature the traditional grand march, where students are introduced by Principal Bryant Bednark, and showcased in formal attire. This is open to all grade levels, and is an opportunity for families and community members to be part of the celebration.
“We’ve put a lot of effort into it,” Sobieski said. “I think it’s going to turn out really well.”
