School Prom

[Donger]

We didn't have a prom . I went to an all boys school.

I don't actually remember there being any fuss about "graduating" or even finishing, other than a general stampede in the general direction of as far away as possible at the ringing of the final bell. The period between taking my A levels and actually being allowed to get the hell out of there and never look back consisted of a series of free periods and physical chores such as cleaning the school minibus.

 

[Julia9054]

 

[Saluki]

My friend's daughter had a school prom. It was about 6 years ago now. Friend and a bunch of other parents had clubbed together for a stretch Hum-Vee. Expensive dress was bought, silk 'bridesmaid' shoes, corsage the lot. Friend's daughter walked home from school in tears after 10 minutes when another girl threw are blackcurrenty drink over her and said that she was fat. According to her step-Father, she is still very upset by the whole thing. I think that girls must be a bit more sensitive than we were at the same age.
Other parents had spent a heck of a lot of money on outfits. My friend showed me the 'official photographs' of the event and there looked like a lot of pricey frocks on show, there were Ice-carvings and all sorts. The car-park looked to have a fair few expensive hire cars there. I think that the official photographer had lined up some and taken a few shots. I thought that it was a horrendous waste of money, but then I don't have kids.
My godson has had a suit hired for him for his prom. His father says that he looks like James Bond. I am not so convinced of that one.

Like others here, our school had a school disco for those who wanted to attend. Like @ColinJ I didn't even go to my own university graduation. I finished my last O level at school and never set foot in the building again. My O level results were posted to me and by that time I had left home and was living in Eire.

 

[Julia9054]

Lots of schools use the prom as an incentive for good behaviour. Too many negative comments on a pupil's discipline record then the prom disappears off their agenda until there's a sustained improvement in behaviour and effort. It works - the prom is something that nearly all pupils look forward to.

My son's school did something similar. How much you paid for your ticket depended on your effort grades throughout years 10 and 11. About 5 kids in the year were so good they got in for nothing. I think my lad paid £5. Not sure what full price was!

 

[Pro Tour Punditry]

A load of old new cobblers.

 

[MontyVeda]

Whatever happened to Mischief Night???

 

[ScotiaLass]

The 'prom' thing started with my daughters last primary year (7 years ago).
My youngest son (now 13) had one at primary too.
It was a lovely meal and disco for them at a nice local hotel...no limos were allowed and no OTT prom dress.
I thought it was a nice way to say goodbye to their friends.

High school was a different matter. Big end of year do, not a prom but a ceilidh, or Leavers Dance.
They spend a term learning Scottish social dances (eightsome reel, gay gordons etc) and get dressed in their best kilts and dresses.
A buffet is proved with a live band and disco later.
Again, big limos are out. They have a photographer set up in a room and they can go get photos taken, individually or in groups, paid for on the night.

 

[Pro Tour Punditry]

Of course, you do realise it's a result of poor parenting rather than poor teenagering

 

[threebikesmcginty]

Goddam yanks, they can't do nuffink right.

 

[stephec]

I've got a fifteen year old lad and a twelve year old girl, I can hardly wait.

 

[welsh dragon]

I've got a fifteen year old lad and a twelve year old girl, I can hardly wait.

Next year for you then. Good luck.

 

[summerdays]

Mine have done it, one wanted the expense dress (though not by those standards) the first time, but second time went for a more useable dress for going out in, the other wanted to do it as cheaply as possible.

 

[vernon]

Whatever happened to Mischief Night???

It joined Bonfire Night and 'Penny for the Guying' - elbowed out by health and safety and Halloween.