Pro – Early Homecoming Versus Late Homecoming

By Mary Katherine Hayth Lord Botetourt High School

Unlike many schools, Lord Botetourt and Staunton River high schools’ homecomings were held very early this year, just weeks after classes began.

Many students said they enjoyed having the game and dance close to the start of the semester because it gave them something to look forward to at the beginning of the school year.

“Homecoming is the celebration of coming back to school, so it’s good that homecoming is so early in the year,” said Alexandra Stiles, a Lord Botetourt junior.

Homecoming isn’t just about the dance itself —

sup> it’s a never-ending process, for the ladies at least.

First, there is the search for that oh-so-perfect dress, which may be easier to find if your homecoming is early. Remember: Dresses are first-come, first-served at boutiques around the Roanoke and New River valleys. Also, most dress shops only have one of each dress, so if your dance is early, you will most likely have your choice of the best dresses before they are gone.

Then, there are hair appointments, which are easier to schedule when your homecoming happens before all the other schools in the valley have theirs.

And of course, girls are often concerned that they must be tan for the dance. Many girls start hitting tanning beds weeks before the big day. But when the dance is early, there is no need — you will still have your summer glow without spending a penny.

When homecoming is early, girls especially have an advantage if they are asked to more than one dance. An early homecoming allows you to get your own event out of the way, leaving more time to get ready for the next one.

Now for the boys, who have it easy, except that they usually have to buy homecoming tickets, which are about $20 per couple. Then there is dinner, which, depending on where you go, can cost anywhere from $30 to $50.

Guys who had jobs during the summer will likely still have extra cash to help pay for the special night, especially if their homecoming happens fairly early.

Homecoming is quite an extravagant night for most teenagers. Timing, preparation — even the weather — are key to having a memorable evening.

“If homecoming is early in the year, the weather would be great for taking pictures outside,” said Jane Reynolds, a Lord Botetourt teacher.

Homecoming is a big deal to students and parents in today’s society. If the date of the dance really does matter, students should say “yes” to having it early in the school year.

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