After two years, prom is finally returning to normal for students and guests. In 2020, prom was postponed, and then later canceled due to COVID-19. The 2021 prom was different from past ones. Last year, prom was held at The Lodge, located at Brady’s Run. Students were required to wear masks, and grand march took place on the track. The time was also shortened as well. The dance was held from 6:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. The Lodge is partially indoors and outdoors. This allowed students to be able to gather together, but still social distance at the same time. Last year’s theme for prom was The Great Outdoors. 

This year, the dance is back on track at its usual location and time. Prom will be held on May 6 at The Marriott in Cranberry Twp. The dance will be held from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., and grand march will take place at 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium. Students attending are expected to arrive around 6 p.m. and meet in the cafeteria. 

Every year, junior class officers plan the prom. They work hard to come up with theme ideas, budgeting, pricing etc. The prom committee consisted of nine students this year: President Luke Snavely, Vice President Katrina Adams, Treasurer Brandi Bonzo, Secretary Erica Rosa, Leannah Messenger, Connor Tavern, Brigette Richard, Grace Lane and Jersee Melvin. This year, the theme is “Cloud 9.” This theme comes from the set up that will be placed on stage at grand march and other decorations as well.

“We expect everything to go really well because everything has gone smoothly and everyone agrees. We plan on making it super fun,” Bonzo said.

The cost of tickets are $150 per couple and $75 per individual. Tickets were on sale from April 19 to 29. Students were given 10days to purchase their tickets. Only seniors and juniors are allowed to attend prom. However, a sophomore or a freshman could attend with a senior or junior as their date. 

Activities at prom help keep the night moving, and keep people on their feet. This year’s entertainment includes: caricature artists, airbrush artists, balloon artists, a photo booth and DJ Tommy D. Students will also be provided with dinner, a midnight chocolate fountain and even breakfast in the morning. Students were required to pay off any school debts before purchasing prom tickets. 

“I’m so excited to spend one last year at prom with all my friends,” senior Olivia Evans said. 

Prom is a big event that juniors and seniors look forward to, seniors especially because graduation is approaching them. It is one last big event before they start a new chapter in their lives and move on from high school.