The Homecoming Dance

Leonia High School held its annual Homecoming dance on November 15th in the school’s newly renovated gym. The theme of the 2024 homecoming was “Tangled Under The Lights.”

The gym was decorated in purple hues with sparkling balloons and streamers hanging from the walls of the gym. The Homecoming Queen, Emily Ryu, and King Daniel Hussein danced to the famous song from the movie Tangled. The movie itself was played on a loop in the background throughout the whole night. 

Freshman Sofia Torres stated, “The highlights of homecoming were the DJ and the photobooth. I also really liked that there was a lot of space in the gym and that I didn’t have to deal with people stepping all over my shoes. I had a lot of fun, and the music was good, and I enjoyed the experience overall. If I had to envision what my first homecoming would be like, it would be that night.”

Students may have enjoyed the dance, but many students were having one issue with the night. People that attended homecoming were thinking that there would be food when going to the dance and were disappointed when realizing there wasn’t any. Freshman Zariah McDermott states, “I expected food knowing we had to pay a $20 fee to enter the school, and students are dancing all night and will eventually get hungry. I would have rather paid a bit extra and got food”. Even though there were many complaints about the food situation, the dance was enjoyable.

As the night of homecoming was coming to an end, a lot of seniors felt bittersweet about their last homecoming. Senior Adam Arriola states, “Yes, it’s gonna be bittersweet to have to experience my last homecoming, and I’m happy that I get to experience this with my friends.”

With this dance, the seniors made a mark on how far they’ve come and got the opportunity to spend time with their class and savor memories. Realizing a chapter is coming to a close, they are taking advantage of the moment that will last.