Every year in high school, we put on an exceptional dance called prom. Some of you may ask, what is prom? Why do we do it every year? Well, prom is an event that occurs during the spring, with a peak season running from April to May in the United States. It’s a tradition for all high schools as a memorable celebration before graduation. It acts like a symbolic transition from childhood to adulthood. Offering a social, formal event for students all over the world to bond, dress up, connect, get to know each other more, and celebrate our accomplishments in our academic goals by the end of the year.
Prom first originated during the 19th century in colleges and universities. It is short for promenade, which evolved into a high school tradition in the 1940s, transforming from a simple dance into a substantial, often elaborate, social event. Our prom king and queen tradition highlights a rite of passage designed for student leaders, originating back in the 20th century, where it boosts enthusiasm for more school spirit and creates unforgettable memories. It is an act of merit-based voting, or popularity, allowing students to recognize their personality, charisma, leadership, involvement, or positive influence. While historically based on a gender binary (male/female duo), multiple schools nationwide are evolving to provide more inclusive, non-binary, or gender-neutral sovereign titles.
The dance will be on Saturday, April 11, from 7:00 to 9:30 PM, and will take place at the Social Hall, 715 S. McClintock Drive, Tempe, AZ 85288. Be sure to buy tickets by April 9, 2026, at 11:59 PM. All high school students are welcome to attend and are allowed to bring a special guest with them, but it has to be a high school-aged guest. Any non-student must be a New Way alum and not over the age of 20. You will have to complete and turn in the External Guest Permission Form, due to the front office by Wednesday, April 8th. The theme for this year’s prom will be black and gold (1920s), pretty ancient and enthusiastic.
The cost of the ticket will be $25 per person. You can purchase them online at the link above or in person during high school lunch each Tuesday, starting after we come back from spring break. Card or cash will be acceptable during the purchase. Whether you purchase a ticket online or in person, you will receive a physical ticket. If you buy your tickets online, they will be given to you by your homeroom teacher starting after spring break. You don’t need to bring this ticket to the prom. We will have a list of everyone who purchased 1 at the entrance. So technically, this is simply a keepsake for every one of you!
There will be some delectable desserts and snacky snacks; make sure to eat dinner before you go in. Unfortunately, there will be no formal dinner. What will be expected at prom is a dance floor, a DJ, and yard games. Please note that once students are at prom, they will have to stay until 9:30 PM. The prom dress code typically requires semi-formal attire, formal attire, or you could dress to the theme and be thriving in the 1920s look. Such as tuxedos, cocktail dresses, floor-length gowns, or well-fitted suits. Make sure to prioritize what you’re going to wear that is comfortable on your feet, either heels or flats. Whatever works for you, choose an outfit that expresses how you feel and how it reflects your personality. Self-expression is always important to who we are in life.
