As the school year winds down, students at Ida B. Wells-Barnett High School are getting ready for one of the most anticipated annual events—prom. This year’s theme, “Tangled Up At Prom,” promises an unforgettable evening filled with music, dancing and lasting memories.
Prom will take place on Saturday, May 2, from 7 to 10 p.m. IBW leadership has scheduled a new venue for this year’s dance: The Loft at 8th Avenue, an elegantly modern setting with an open layout. The Loft, located in Southeast Portland, is an indoor and outdoor event space that will be decorated and transformed to reflect the theme. From ornaments to lighting, IBW leadership is working to create a celebratory and immersive experience for students.
While it’s IBW’s goal that every student can attend prom, as always, the dance will be exclusive to juniors and seniors and require a 90% attendance rate. This includes excused and unexcused absences. However, if they don’t meet this requirement, students can meet with their grade’s administrator or IBW’s student attendance coach, Juan Medina, who can be found in room 139. IBW also has at-school resources students can utilize for support, including our social worker, Britni Locke, and school psychologists Emilee Refvem and Emily Doak, all found in room 146.
Prom tickets are available on SchoolPay starting April 15, and cost $50 for IBW students and $55 for guests. If students are bringing a non-IBW company, they will have to fill out a guest form prior to payment.
As usual, there will be food and drinks at the dance, but be sure to eat dinner beforehand—only snacks and small desserts are provided.
In addition to dancing, the night will feature music provided by the same DJ as this year’s Winter Formal dance in February and a carefully curated playlist from IBW leadership. Students can also look forward to popular prom traditions, including a photo booth, time to socialize with friends and the crowning of prom royalty. So, be sure to vote for your grades. These moments, big and small, help make prom a truly unforgettable evening.
Worried about dress code? Not to worry. Prom is a highly formal school dance, so be sure to show up in your Sunday best. Long dresses, heels and tuxedos are suggested, but not required.
From classic suits and elegant gowns to unique and expressive fashion choices, this year’s prom is expected to highlight both tradition and individuality. Of course, be sure to dress comfortably—it’ll be a long night!
IBW students are looking forward to the evening. “I’m so excited to get ready with my friends and dance with them,” said Maddy Garfinkle, an IBW senior and a part of IBW leadership.
No matter the specifics, one thing is certain: “Tangled Up At Prom” is set to be a night to remember for IBW.
