Change of homecoming dance causes concerns for students; skipping class not encouraged

(Nov. 2012 story)

It’s a week that most high school students look forward to every year — homecoming week.

At Coronado High School, students have participated in spirit-filled events including a parade, football game and a dance to wrap up the festive week.

Traditionally, the homecoming is held on Saturday night, following the Friday night’s game, but at Coronado thetradition has been shifted.

This year’s homecoming dance will be held on Friday instead, with the football team taking the field Thursday night.

In this week’s school newspaper, assistant principalEric Cresswas quoted saying thatthe school’s administration understands if a parent wants to pull their child out of class to get ready for the dance.

Hewent on to say students are asked to stay until 2nd period so they are not counted absent.

Cress told ABC-7 his statement was taken out of context and ditching class was not encouraged.

He said parents can excercise their right to take their children out of school early, as long as they follow protocol.

Several students echoed the same concerns — not having enough time to get ready for the big dance.

“We need a whole day to get ready because we wantto look.It’s homecoming, it’s a big deal to us,” said one sophomore.

While others said there is plenty of time after school to take care of all the homecoming dance details.

Coronado’s dance is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m.

Assistant principal Cress said the Friday dance was a result of UIL realignment and the school’s football schedule.

(Nov. 2012 story)