Miramonte is shaking things up this homecoming season. The leadership class has given the dance a serious glow up: no more sweating in a crowded gym with questionable music or squeaking shoes. This year is all about creating an electric atmosphere, featuring several major changes that will set the stage for an awesome homecoming dance that is more fun and creative than ever.
The dance will now run from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m., an hour longer than in previous years. The event, traditionally held in the gym, will also move fully outdoors into the pool lot, allowing students to enjoy an open-air setting under the stars.
“I’m really excited about the outdoor setup. It always gets so hot and stuffy in the gym, so having it outside will make it way more fun and comfortable,” senior Mackenzie Pearce said.
Homecoming has become outdated every year with the same gym, and the same playlist, making it not feel as special. In addition to the food trucks, more activities, including an upgraded DJ setup are intended to make the night more engaging for students.
”Usually, people get bored and want to leave early, but with more to do, like the new food trucks and outdoor set up, I think everyone will enjoy it more and want to stay longer,” Pearce said.
“I am super excited about this year’s Homecoming and what it has to offer,” sophomore Brynn Rogers said. There will be more games, food trucks, and a professional DJ spinning all your favorite tracks included in the price. “We hired the premier event planner in the Bay Area and we are super lucky to have secured him because he’s always hired during this season and he doesn’t work with just anyone,” Associate Principal Jami Greer said.
The push for a better homecoming didn’t just come from students; Leadership played a huge role in the change. “I traveled to the Northgate Homecoming last year and it was amazing, and right away I knew we had to update ours,” Rogers said. Leadership spent weeks gathering inspiration and planning this year’s Homecoming. “Leadership students went to other dances and observed how other schools did homecoming. A group of students even started scouting ideas last year and spoke with Leadership students from Northgate and other AUHSD schools to get ideas,” Greer said.
With all the new upgrades this year, the price of the dance has gone up. Tickets are more expensive than the previous years. On top of that, you get a few free items from the food trucks complementary for just attending the dance. “Although the ticket prices have increased, I believe we’ll be getting what we are paying for. And I know parents, Leadership and Miramonte staff are putting in an extra amount of effort to ensure everyone has a great time!” Rogers said. This dance will also serve as a celebration of Miramonte’s 70th anniversary.
For many students, this year’s dance marks a milestone for students who are attending their last homecoming. “Since it’s my last Homecoming at Miramonte, I just want to remember having an amazing time with all my friends and making the most out of all these new updates,” Pearce said.
This year is more than homecoming, it’s a turning point. Through new features like an outdoor venue, upgraded entertainment, and more food options, organizers hope to create a more memorable experience for students.
