Each year, Oliver Ames hosts the annual homecoming dance towards the beginning of November. Unfortunately, as we know, this year’s homecoming dance has been cancelled due to Covid; but thankfully, students are still able to attend the Fall Dance instead. Mrs. Kenny was very clear that the fall dance will not be anything like Homecoming, but it will be a good way for the community to connect like we used to.
“The fall dance will not be like Homecoming because Homecoming typically falls before Thanksgiving, it kicks off with a pep rally, and it is inside,” says Mrs. Kenney. “We wanted to give students the opportunity to attend some form of a school dance despite Covid restrictions”.
The Fall Dance will be taking place on October 15th from 6:30-9:00 pm. The dance will be held on the outdoor basketball courts, which are located in front of the high school. The tickets are $20 and will be sold in Mrs. Kenney’s room in room 208 from October 6th to October 13th. Snacks, water, and music will all be provided. There is no dress code, but you should beware of the changing weather! Lastly, if finances pose a concern, you can check in with either Mrs. Kenney or Mrs. Marani.
This sudden news has generated feelings of disappointment and anger across all four grades.
Many students were disappointed that this year’s dance was cancelled because they were looking forward to having a good time with their friends and dressing up. Homecoming has always been a great way for students to take their minds off of stress and schoolwork for one night.
A senior at OA, Molly Skinner describes how she was “excited for the yearly tradition”. Molly also emphasized how “the fall dance will not be the same, but at least we are able to attend some form of a school dance”. The majority of the other students feel the same way.
The freshmen and sophomores wanted to experience a high school homecoming, but they are optimistic for the future. Sophomore Morgan Turnip has mixed feelings about the upcoming dance. Morgan was upset because she believes that she is missing out on “a vital part of the high school experience”. Despite feeling let down, Morgan expresses how she is still “happy to have a night together with all of my friends”. Hopefully the incoming students will be able to attend homecoming at OA in the upcoming years.
The Fall Dance will still give students the opportunity to have fun together in a Covid safe manner. If you have any questions, email The Daily Olivian or contact Mrs. Kenney in room 208!