May 21, 2021
By Christa Ruiz
Staff Writer
This year’s graduating class has faced a unique challenge: the entirety of their senior year has taken place amidst a pandemic. Although 12th grade is typically jam packed with fun experiences for seniors to celebrate their last year in the district, many of these events did not occur. However, one tradition that will remain is senior banquet.
The banquet will be held on June 10 at The Legacy Castle in Pompton Plains where prom would have taken place last year. Permission slips were sent out on May 13.
The theme of the event is diamonds and gold, and it will be exclusive to LHS seniors just as the banquet always has been. Unlike past banquets, seniors will be able to bring dates and wear prom dresses and suits. A king and queen will also be announced.
Senior Kyle Henning said he is looking forward to the banquet.
“I didn’t even know we were having something, I thought we were just gonna not have anything, but I’m happy we at least have something,” Henning said.
He said what he is most excited about is hanging out with his friends.
Henning said he does not know what percentage of students in attendance will be vaccinated, but he is not concerned about unvaccinated students being at the event.
“I think [the organizers are] going to make it so we’re all spread apart, and we can’t really get close to each other,” Henning said. “We’re gonna have to wear masks the entire time.”
The theme of the event is diamonds and gold, and it will be exclusive to LHS seniors just as the banquet always has been. Unlike past banquets, seniors will be able to bring dates and wear prom dresses and suits. A king and queen will also be announced.
Henning said the safety protocol will make the event less enjoyable than the event would have been otherwise.
Senior Abida Iqbal said she thinks the banquet will be pretty safe due to Covid-19 protocol that will be enforced. She said the fact that some students and adults will already have been vaccinated will also ensure the safety of those in attendance.
“[They] can enjoy [themselves] without having to worry about the many risks that come with exposure to others,” Iqbal said.
She said she decided not to attend the banquet even though she had planned on attending prom last year.
“Most of my friends are either [elsewhere] or not planning to attend, so I don’t find the need in attending it myself,” Iqbal said.
She said she expects there to be fewer students in attendance than usual but still believes the event will be fun.
Senior Tanveer Kaur said she is happy the school decided to permit the banquet to take place.
“I felt amazed it was going to occur because I would have the chance to see my friends, and [we] could finally have a senior event since [the] majority of them were canceled,” Kaur said.
Kaur said mask-wearing will be an important part of keeping everyone safe. She said she feels better knowing that some attendees will be vaccinated even though she will not be vaccinated by the date of the banquet.
“I’m looking forward to making memories with my friends… taking pictures and having a nice time,” Kaur said.
Spanish teacher Mrs. Silvelo, who co-advises the senior class with gym teacher Mr. Tuero, said there are many plans in store to make the evening special.
“The menu is done. We will also be having a photo booth, a DJ and some other additional fun things,” Silvelo said.
She said she and Tuero put a lot of attention into designing the menu because she knows everyone will be looking forward to good food.
Silvelo said she and Tuero also focused on ensuring the event will be safe.
“We made sure that we followed all the procedures, protocols and rules in order for this to happen,” Silvelo said.
She said there will be hand sanitizing stations, the bathrooms will have attendants and extra masks will be available. There will be at least 15 chaperones, and Police Sgt. Passamano and school nurse Mrs. Nowinski will be there to ensure safety protocol is being followed.
Silvelo said she is excited for the banquet to finally happen and for the seniors to enjoy a night in their honor at an incredible venue.
“It’s so beautiful, and I hope everybody has a good time,” Silvelo said. “I feel like the kids have missed out on so much already, so this is going to be such a great way to finish the school year strong.”
