Lobby Legends. Sophomores Joshua Williams, Mariah Sadler, Taylor Holley, Ryan Willoughby, and Daylan Williams show off their unique styles as they strike a pose in the lobby before the homecoming festivities begin. The group’s creative expressions and bold fashion choices made them stand out as they celebrated a night of fun and friendship. Photo by Jada Bowman.
By Justice Reeves-Batts and Ethan Watkins
Renaissance High School’s Spirit Week came to a glamorous end with the annual homecoming dance on Oct. 19, 2024, held at Huntington Place in the heart of downtown Detroit. The event featured a “Hollywood” theme, encouraging students to bring out their best red-carpet looks.
For students like junior Kennedy Adams, the Hollywood theme inspired bold outfit choices that made the night memorable.
“I saw this suit online; it reminded me of one of the celebrities I saw on the red carpet,” Adams said. “It made me think about the Hollywood theme, so that was my inspiration for my outfit. And my date is wearing something similar, so that’s also why I chose it.”
With the Hollywood theme, having a date or arriving with friends seemed to be a big deal.
“You have to show up with a date; it’s way more fun than coming alone,” said student sophomore Joshua White. “If you don’t come with a date, you have to come with friends. Being alone isn’t as fun.”
After a busy Spirit Week filled with themed days and celebrations, the homecoming dance offered a final opportunity for students to join in Renaissance’s tradition of school spirit and fun.
Student sophomore Dallas Young, who had participated in the school’s parade earlier in the day, explained how the celebrations had boosted his confidence.
“Walking in the parade before homecoming inspired me to come to the dance with confidence and charisma,” he said. “The celebrations and pep rallies before the dance really helped me feel comfortable with my peers and helped me build bonds with new people.”
As the night went on, students grew more comfortable, expressing themselves through their outfits, dancing, chatting with friends, and taking pictures. During the dance, students were seen enjoying food, socializing with friends, and celebrating the moment.
As Adams put it, “Tonight brought everyone together. I got to see everyone’s outfits, and there was no drama—just an enjoyable time.”
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the homecoming court played a central role in the night. At Renaissance, students on the homecoming court are nominated to represent their grade at the dance, bringing excitement and friendly competition.
“If I won homecoming prince, I would go to Atlanta with my friends on the field trip,” said junior and Homecoming Prince Joel Hill. “I felt awesome when I won.”
Homecoming court nominee junior R’Cean Batts shared his positive experience as well. “Even though I wasn’t picked for Homecoming Lord, it was an incredibly fun experience to run for homecoming court, and I’m glad I did. I have no regrets.”
The event resulted from months of planning by administrators and the Renaissance Student Senate. Despite the work involved, Class President Pallas Bibbs, who is a junior, felt appreciation for the results.
“I enjoy the culture of homecoming,” Bibbs said. “We get to see everybody dressed up and stepping out of their comfort zone. It’s a genuinely nice tradition. The buildup from Spirit Week to homecoming was very exciting.”
President Bibbs also discussed the value of participating in school events. From her perspective, these experiences teach students confidence and connection, lessons that last long after the week’s events.
By the end of the evening, most students felt the homecoming dance was worth the wait and left with lasting memories.
Bibbs encouraged all students to consider attending in the future. “You can meet new people, and don’t be too scared to go because it’s a fun experience and a chance to make memories. It’s something you don’t want to miss out on.” billions.
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