Students at Metea Valley High School gathered this weekend for the annual homecoming dance, a long-standing tradition that brought together classmates from every grade for a night of music, photos, and school spirit.
From taking photos with friends to joining the crowd on the dance floor, students found their own reasons for being there: some for the social experience, others to carry on traditions, and many simply to enjoy a night outside of the classroom. Whether it was their first homecoming or their last, or maybe just a returning visit, the evening offered a space to unwind, connect, and make memories.
Junior Diego Navarres attended the dance with a focus on making memories with friends.
“I really just came to get flying for the pictures,” Navarres said. “You know, just have a good time with friends, enjoy the memories.”
Sophomore Veda Panjala, a returner to the homecoming dance, says he came just because it was fun.
“I went last year and it was really fun, so I wanted to go to this one,” Panjala said. “I came with my friends… It’s just an overall fun hangout.”
While most students came to enjoy their own school’s homecoming, one attendee brought a different perspective and just as much enthusiasm.
Metea Valley’s homecoming gave Lenna Nam, a sophomore who currently attends Oswego East, a chance to reconnect with old friends.
“I used to go to Granger, and then I moved in eighth grade,” Nam said. “So I was supposed to go here, but I just wanted to see old friends again.”
And while she came for the people, she stayed for the energy.
“I think the vibe is really nice, and the energy is here, for sure,” Nam said. “I was out there moshing…it was really fun.”
Students like senior Morgan Sencherey came to Homecoming to commemorate their final year.
“It’s my last year,” Sencherey said. “Gotta make memories that I’ll remember when I’m in college.”
Overall, this year’s homecoming offered students a chance to come together, celebrate school spirit, and create lasting memories. Whether it was their first dance or their last, attendees experienced a night filled with music, friends, and shared moments that marked a meaningful part of the high school experience.
“Soon enough, you’ll be at your last homecoming,” Sencherey said. “Just make sure you savor all the memories — and make sure to authentically be yourself, always.”
