New social opportunity for underclassmen

A new tradition may very well begin this year as freshmen and sophomores have a new social gathering opportunity. There has long been criticism that upperclassmen have prom, but no formal dance option is available for ninth and tenth graders. This inequity is soon to end as a winter formal geared towards those underclassmen who feel slighted due to the lack of a dance has been announced.

“When I ran for freshman class president, many freshmen wanted a dance for them as well,” said sophomore class president Claire Blackman.

Upperclassmen have mixed opinions concerning the dance.

“I personally wouldn’t have gone,” said senior Jose Barrios. “However, I think it’s a really good opportunity for freshmen and sophomores to make new friends and socialize with each other.”

While this dance will not bear the same significance as prom, it does provide a good opportunity for underclassmen to mingle outside of the school setting.

“We wanted to create an activity just for underclassmen,” said SGA supervisor Shannon Overby. “Last year, our sophomore president Lily Frosh and Student Body President Reynolds Craver envisioned this for a way for freshmen and sophomores to feel more acclimated at Reagan.”

For many, the first years of high school can be stressful and uncomfortable, as it is a new situation they have not had time to grow accustomed to. This could lead to feelings of apprehension concerning prom in their later years of high school. This dance looks to be a smooth transition into the more formal aspects of prom.

“It’s a good opportunity, because you can meet new people,” said freshman Jamile Francis.

As for location, the dance will not be held at the Dash stadium, which is the regular Reagan prom venue. It will take place in the Brookberry Farm Barn, an event facility that, despite its name, doesn’t feature cows and hay bales.

“The main goal for the dance is for it to be classy,” Blackman said.

With a wide open floor plan, a high arched ceiling, good lighting and air conditioning, this barn comes with all the bells and whistles that make a location perfect for hosting a dance. The floor can easily be divided into sections for refreshments and a dance floor. There is no shortage of space for whatever the SGA wants to do concerning arrangement or decor.

The dance hasn’t been publicized much at this point, but coverage and announcements will likely increase in frequency as the date approaches. The SGA hopes to host the dance in January after Christmas break.

This light-hearted, fun event for underclassmen appears to be an intriguing idea for many. A dance for younger students could strengthen their bond as a class as they approach the end of their primary education together.

“I think it’ll be fun,” said sophomore Abi Wooten. “Why not go?”