The 2024-25 school year ends soon, meaning Prom is just around the corner. Another exciting dance hosted by Ida B. Wells High School, exclusive to juniors and seniors. The formal event marks the end of the high school experience for seniors. It’s a night of celebration, dressing up, dancing and making memories with friends or dates一 a classic, end–of-high-school event.
Prom will take place on May 3 this year from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. Similar to Winter Formal, Prom will not take place at school. Like last year, it will be at the Melody Ballroom, located in Southeast Portland. The ballroom is known for its historic charm. It’s a restored classic venue that is spacious with large hardwood floors for dancing.
Once again, 90 percent or higher attendance is required for juniors and seniors to attend Prom. Students can find out if they qualify by visiting the poster of names located outside room 139. If students don’t meet the attendance requirements, they can meet with their grade advisor.
The tickets for the dance are $40 for IBW students and $45 for anyone who does not attend IBW. This is mainly because food will be provided. A variety of desserts will be available at Prom with lots of seating to enjoy them. The ballroom and food will be located in separate rooms to provide a comfort area if students need a break from the loud music and dancing.
Prom is a very formal event with a new dress code. Unlike previous dances, heels are highly encouraged at Prom. Long dresses and formal suits are also suggested. Of course, dress to your comfort level, show up and show out.
This year’s prom theme is City of Stars. If you are unfamiliar with the title, it is the name of a song featured in the famous movie “La La Land.” It’s the first song of the movie, played as the actor, Ryan Gosling, strolls down the Los Angeles pier after meeting with his character’s love interest. If you know the movie well, you’d know this is a very romantic song, making it a perfect theme for Prom.
Dates aren’t required for prom, but if you do have a date, make sure to ask them out via “promposal.” A promposal is a cute way to ask out your date by using props or staging a scene. For example, making a big poster with a funny prom joke is a great way to go. Promposals are definitely one of the exciting things students do as Prom approaches.
The Prom rush shopping is ending, so make sure you’re all set and ready to dance. Let’s make this another great IBW Prom that is extra special for our juniors and graduating seniors, signaling the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.
