On the evening of October 27, the JP Stevens student council organized a glamorous night of enthralling music, dance, and activities. Regarded as an exciting tradition of celebration among high schools across the country, the homecoming dance is the perfect opportunity for students to celebrate school spirit and cherish each other’s company.  

Following JPS’ spirit week, which included dress-up days such as PJ Day, Tropical Day, Barbie vs. Oppenheimer Day, and Throwback Day, the highly-anticipated homecoming dance served as the week’s last event to kick off the school year. In contrast to prom, which typically consists of only seniors and juniors, the homecoming dance is enjoyed by all four grade levels.  

The theme of the dance was Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” painting, so the gym was illuminated with bright fairy lights, streamers, star cutouts, and glitter all around. Students adhered to the theme with shimmery purple, blue, white and black dresses and suits, leaving their usual school attire and textbooks.

The event began as thrilled students rushed into the gym, excited for the night’s festivities. A line quickly formed as most students waited for their turn to capture memorable pictures at the photobooth, which had a brightly lit tapestry of Van Gogh’s “Starry Night”. Others indulged in the snack booth which provided a delicious variety of chips and beverages. Waiting for the dancing to begin, the students conversed amongst themselves in large clusters, discussing their Homecoming date proposals and invitations. The conversations faded and students began to get groovy as the DJ mixed popular songs such as Travis Scott’s new song FE!N, and Headlines by Drake. 

The gym was filled with joy and excitement as students immersed themselves in the roaring music. Students showed off their energetic dance moves and even lifted each other in the air on the dance flow. The students were absorbed in the party as they danced with their friends, even having to take breaks from the dancing to recuperate. 

“Organizing the homecoming dance was definitely time-consuming but also very worth it to see all of our work come together. I got to work with my fellow officers, the Student Council Executive Board, and volunteers from FCCLA to bring our vision of this year’s homecoming to life,” said student council President Bill Tang, expressing his gratitude towards the whole experience. “I hope everyone enjoyed this year’s homecoming and is excited for next year’s and the upcoming JPS Got Talent Show!”

The event eventually reached its conclusion at 9:00 p.m., with students saying their goodbyes and leaving for the night. Many seniors shared bittersweet tears as they enjoyed their last high school homecoming dance, reflecting upon their four years of high school and commemorating a new chapter in their lives.    

“Homecoming was a lot of fun! I loved spending time with my friends and going out after. I’ve made a lot of memories these past four years and will cherish this year’s homecoming as one of them,” said senior Juhi Bhosale, emotionally reflecting upon the dance. 

Ultimately, the annual homecoming dance allowed students to bond with one another, celebrate their academic dedication in the last few years of high school, and inaugurate a brand new school year. A certainly memorable event, many students will reflect upon the 2023 homecoming dance as a night to remember.