Homecoming is a century-old tradition that originally started as a fundraiser for schools that would invite alumni to attend homecoming events and, of course, give generously. High school homecoming and spirit week continue to be lavish events including sports, parties, and parades that culminate in the last activity of the week: the homecoming dance.

Homecoming Dance

The homecoming dance has received some of the same criticisms in recent years as the high school prom. Too much money gets spent on dresses and dinners, too much drinking occurs behind the scenes, and too many expectations are put on the shoulders of teenagers. School officials and parents are well advised to spread the focus of homecoming over the course of the entire week, and to discourage students from spending lavish amounts of money on dresses, limousines, and other accouterments.