While prom night is often remembered for its glamour, dresses, and dancing, what most students don’t see is the financial planning behind it. From ticket sales to funding future senior events, this year’s prom at Shadow Ridge High School was more than just a party, it was a fundraiser with long-term impact.

“Prom raises money for all the senior events for the following year,” said Amanda Becker, the Junior Class Advisor for Student Council. “We raised around $5,000, which should be enough to get the seniors started next year with their senior shirts and Senior Sunrise.”

Many students may not realize just how much work goes on behind the scenes. With 409 tickets sold, the turnout was strong, though Becker noted it wasn’t quite as profitable as past years. 

“We did not make as much money this year as we normally do,” she explained. 

That shortfall means the current junior class will need to take initiative. 

“This year’s junior class will have to put effort into fundraising for all of their events if we want those events to remain free,” stated Becker.

Still, when talking about whether the event was successful, Becker didn’t hesitate. “Prom is successful every year. Regardless of how many tickets are sold, when you see all the students dressed up with huge smiles on their faces, it automatically makes it successful,” Becker said.

It is also the added effort of the Junior Class Student Council and volunteers that made the event come together. From selecting the theme to organizing logistics, months of preparation went into that one night.

Looking ahead, Becker plans to remain involved as class advisor, but acknowledges that changes may be necessary, especially when it comes to costs. 

“We will probably find a less expensive venue or vendor,” she said. 

Although prom is a key tradition, keeping it financially viable while still fun is a growing challenge.

She also emphasized that school policies remain important.

“If students want to attend any events or activities, they will have to make a conscious effort to come to school, be on time, and maintain passing grades, even for those classes they think they do not need,” Becker clarified.

In the end, prom is about more than one night. It sets the tone and the budget for the following year’s senior class. While students danced the night away under sparkling lights, the prom’s success also helped light the path for events still to come.