From puppies to baja blasts and ukeleles, Homecoming Dance proposals have become the ultimate stage of creativity– this year, SJHHS students did not disappoint. 

Beginning in the 20th century, the tradition of asking a date to Homecoming has since then flourished in high schools throughout America. 

With modern proposal culture, it is no longer appropriate to ask anyone with just words; a poster, song, or romantic gesture is unspokenly required. 

According to Wooster High School, the trend of bigger and better proposals for school dances started in 2001, and was popularized in 2007 when it became a nationwide trend. This year, SJHHS students brought their A-game. 

Jude Robinson (12) asked his date, Maddie Jacobsen (12) who attends Mission Viejo High School, to Homecoming with the assistance of his dog, Buster, who his girlfriend adores. 

“It was a little hard to do, but I think it’s worth it…The sign that I held said, ‘It would be ruff at Homecoming without you,’ and then my dog wore a sign around his neck that said ‘Homecoming?,’” said Robinson (12). 

Robinson and his mom creatively formulated the proposal. After designing the posters, he surprised his girlfriend outside of his house. It was a little difficult to plan, especially with a rowdy dog, but Robinson’s date’s reaction was worth it. 

“She was really surprised. She was like ‘Oh my gosh!’ It was really funny,” said Robinson (12). 

Proposals are special because they can connect friends, commemorate the beginning of a new relationship, or serve as a romantic memory for a pre-existing couple Robinson and Jacobsen have been dating for over two years, and this was his third time asking her to Homecoming.

Unlike Robinson and Jacobsen, Braeden Valenzuela (12) asked his friend Ella Greed (12) to the Homecoming dance. They have been friends for almost two years. Valenzuela asked Greed with a sign that said “HOCO would be a baja blast with you!” along with a fresh Baja Blast drink from Taco Bell. 

“She was flabbergasted… she didn’t expect it. It was actually my first sign to make for someone, so it was really fun for a first time,” said Valenzuela (12). 

Going to the school dance with a friend is a great way to make the night more special, especially if you do not want a date. Buying a corsage and boutonniere, wearing a matching color scheme, and taking photos together makes the day more fun. However, Homecoming is also an opportunity to express one’s interest for another person. 

Albert Perkins (11) asked his date Kate Martin (11) to Homecoming with a tropical song, “Hanalei Moon” by Dennis Pavao. Perkins was inspired by his dad who is a singer. Perkins and his dad worked together to change the lyrics of “Hanalei Moon” to pertain to Martin.

“He just started playing it and then changed the words,” said Perkin (11).

Perkins asked Martin at school with the help of his friends. He played the ukulele and sang the song, while four of his friends stood behind him as backup singers, and a fifth person played the cajón (a wooden drum).

Over time, Homecoming proposals have gone from a simple yes or no question, to extravagant posters and gestures. Perkin’s persuasive song scored him a date to this year’s Homecoming. 

“She threw arms up and said, yes!” said Perkins (11) about his date, Kate Martin (11). 

“Sometimes it’s a little bit much, but I think it could be fun,” said Perkins (11).

Homecoming proposals at our school get more extravagant each year. It has become part of San Juan Hills’ culture, and is a fun way to Ride for the Brand. Happy Homecoming season! Go all in.