The Senior Citizen Prom last Wednesday was an event where the school’s youngest students gather with the older generation, which mainly consisted of the grandparents of first-year students.
It took place a few years ago and was brought back this year. The occasion aims to allow everyone to share their experiences, play games, and enjoy a fun-filled day.
The theme for the gathering was, “If we know where we came from, we may better know where to go. If we know who we came from, we may better understand who we are.”
The cafeteria was adorned with colorful decorations, including tablecloths, heart-shaped balloons, and tin cans filled with fresh flowers on each table.
“I’m excited to get to know and converse with them. We needed to invite them.”
— Freshman Manuela Saldivia
The senior citizens arrived with a positive outlook and were enthusiastic about having the opportunity to spend time with the freshmen. This event allowed them to establish a deeper connection with their grandchildren. As for the guests who were not grandparents of the first-year students, they were pleased to acquaint themselves with the freshmen and everyone present. Furthermore, the first-year students were excellent and respectful hosts, showing interest in listening to their stories and what they had to say.
“I think it was a great experience. It was a very magical event where we were able to follow the example of the Don Bosco oratory; it was a home, in a school, while playing, while always praying.”
— Mrs. Mavelys De la Rosa
The event was very well planned; however, they ran out of time for all the activities planned. Perhaps they will rearrange the schedule next year to fulfill all activities like dancing and choosing prom queen and king. A significant amount of time and effort was required to make this event successful. As with any new experience, they developed several new skills to make future versions of the event even better.
“It’s great that they are doing this again, but I think since it’s the first time we do it, after a while; so I believe next year they’ll do it even better,” said freshman Gabriele Bravar.
“I feel like it’s necessary to make them feel less alone, loved, and more.”
— Freshman Joshua Rocha
The activities that did take place included bingo, lunch, and an opportunity for the senior citizens to share interesting facts. Ultimately, the most popular activity among everyone was sharing their stories.
“I believe we did achieve a wonderful event, and our guests not only had fun but were grateful for the opportunity to come to our beautiful campus,” said Ms. Dennise Leyva, Director of Exceptional Student Education.
Everyone who enjoyed the event praised Ms. Maria De la Guardia, Director of Service Learning, for the fantastic job she did in planning and managing the Senior Citizen Prom.
