Juniors prepare for prom -- 'Once in a lifetime event'

Junior year is a lot of work for Clayton Valley students, but the Class of 2027 is finally getting ready for their big night. This year’s Junior Prom, called “A Night Under the Lanterns,” will be held March 28 at the Sequoyah Country Club in Oakland.

For many juniors, it’s a chance to hang out with friends away from school and not worry about classes. 

Junior Yesenia Castro said she is most excited about having fun with her friends.

 “My biggest hope going into prom is that it’s fun with good music,” she added.

Rachael Rodriguez, who is a member of ASB, says that the night is really about the memories the class will make together.

 “Junior prom is a once-in-a-lifetime event where people go to dance, get dressed up, and have fun,” she said. 

While some people don't like dancing, there are other activities that they can do. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the night will have a DJ, a photo booth, and lawn games.

Junior Aiden Holeman thinks the variety is the best part. 

“I think the best thing that is going to happen at prom is definitely all the poker tables,”  Holeman said. “ I think it’s a fun thing to do if you don’t like dancing or socializing as much.”

Holeman also reminded students that they don’t need to worry about the basics. 

“Something people might not know is that food and drinks are provided.”

Juniors Adam Gonzalez and Yesenia Castro discuss a flier posted in the D wing that shares some of the details about Junior Prom, which takes place March 28 in Oakland. (Photo by Sophie Casillas/Talon staff)

However, planning the dance took a lot of work. One of the hardest parts was finding the right place to go.

“Some problems we faced when planning prom was choosing a venue that everyone would enjoy,” said Rodriguez. She noted that this is the first time that the school has used the Sequoyah Country Club for prom.

To make sure everyone has a good time, students even helped pick the music. Song requests were turned in earlier this month so the DJ plays what students actually want to hear.

As the date gets closer, students can feel the excitement in the hallways. Most just want a night to remember. Junior Adam Gonzalez is looking forward to the social side of the event.

"I'm most excited about getting to hang out with my friends outside of school and just having a good time together," Gonzalez said. "It's one of those nights people talk about for a long time."

He did mention that he's a little worried about the location.

“It’s in Oakland, I think, and I don't want my stuff to get stolen,” Gonzalez explained. 

Even though there are some rules like staying at the club until 9:30 p.m, most juniors are just ready to get dressed up and have a great time.