For many seniors (and some juniors) at Oak Park and River Forest High School, prom marks the epitome of the high school experience. As the spring season unfolds, the excitement around prom begins to take center stage. With the big night just around the corner, students are counting down the days. 

Prom will take place on Saturday, May 17, and the week leading up to it will include spirit days to build excitement. Every year, prom is brought to life by the Prom Committee, a group of six students sponsored by OPRF Mathematics Teacher Neal Weismann. The group began meeting in January, picking the “Roaring Twenties” theme and selecting the preparations for the evening, as well as managing publicity.

The event will once again be held at the Hyatt Regency Chicago. Tickets are currently on sale through May 4 on Revtrak or through the bookstore. Prices start at $110 for OPRF students. More details and updates are available by joining the prom Google Classroom.

“I hope that everyone has a good time and treats each other, staff, and hotel employees with kindness,” said Weismann. “It should be a time for only happy memories.” 

For many seniors, this year’s prom is especially meaningful as their last opportunity to attend. “I am very excited to dress up with all my friends and spend a fun night together,” said senior Luna Clancy, who will be attending prom for the first time. “[Prom] is a rite of passage and a very memorable moment to have from high school to take with you into your life.”

Clancy will be attending prom with a group of friends, including senior Kerala Smith, who attended prom last year. “For me, prom is one of the last moments of my high school journey and getting to party with my peers is the perfect way to celebrate the end of high school,” said Smith. “[Prom last year] was so fun. I loved getting to see all my friends, but I think this year will be even more special since I am actually a senior this year.”

Both juniors and seniors are excited for prom as it offers a chance to express themselves and create memories of their high school experience.

“The prom is a night to celebrate four years of hard work. You make it special.” said Weismann.