School Dances
ETHS school dances are fun, inclusive events that bring students together to celebrate, socialize, and make lasting memories. Each dance offers a unique experience with live entertainment.
At ETHS, we value inclusivity and creating welcoming spaces for all students. Dances feature a variety of activities so every Wildkit can have a fun night—from music and dancing to games, photo booths, activity stations, and spaces to relax and hang out with friends, there’s something for everyone.
Types of Dances
Dance Guidelines and Expectations
School dances are school functions, both on and off campus. All ETHS school policies, procedures, and expectations outlined in the Student Handbook (“The Pilot”) apply during dances, and students and guests must adhere to these rules.
Eligibility to Attend
Students must have 10 or fewer tardy detentions and no unserved consequences in order to attend a school dance. Students with more than 10 tardies or on social probation are not eligible to attend.
Students should check their detention status in myETHS and clear any detentions by the ticket purchase deadline. For more information about how to clear tardies, visit the Tardies page.
Entry
Admittance to school dances is subject to the approval of the ETHS administration. To ensure a safe and enjoyable prom experience:
- ID Requirements: ETHS students must present a current Student ID (physical or virtual) for entry. External guests must present a valid, state-issued photo ID. Note: Student IDs will not be accepted for non-ETHS students.
- No Reentry: Students and guests will not be permitted to leave and return to the dance once they have entered. Please bring all necessary items with you.
- Safety Measures: All bags will be checked at entry. Breathalyzer tests may be given randomly or when there is suspicion of substance use. These measures help ensure a safe, substance-free environment for all students.
- Event-Specific Guidelines: Each dance may have additional or specific entry instructions and safety guidelines. Students should review the event details carefully.
Students who fail to meet or comply with entry requirements may be denied entry to the dance without a refund. Students or guests found possessing or under the influence of alcohol or drugs will face disciplinary consequences according to the Student Handbook.
Supervision
Dances are chaperoned by ETHS administrators and staff, including Deans and Safety personnel. In addition, School Resource Officers (SRO) are present for all dances held at ETHS. For dances held outside the City of Evanston (i.e. Senior Prom), local law enforcement may be present at the venue. This supervision is in place to maintain a safe environment, enforce school policies, and address any concerns that may arise during the event.
Behavior Expectations
All ETHS rules and policies apply at school dances, just as they do during the regular school day. Students are expected to behave respectfully and responsibly at all times.
- Treat classmates, staff, and guests with respect. Be mindful of boundaries.
- Possession or use of alcohol, drugs, or other controlled substances is strictly prohibited.
- Physical altercations or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.
- Students must comply with any instructions or requests from dance supervisors and Safety staff.
Violations
Attending ETHS dances is a privilege. Students do not meet behavior expectations or violate school rules may face the following consequences:
- Immediate Removal: Students may be removed from the dance without a refund. A parent/guardian will be contacted to pick up the student.
- Disciplinary Action: Violations may result in school consequences according to the Student Handbook. Students may lose the opportunity to attend future dances.
Ticket Information
Each dance has its own ticket price and purchase process. Be sure to check the individual event pages for the most up-to-date information and instructions on how to buy tickets:
- Homecoming
- Winter Formal
- Prom
Making Safe Choices
The night doesn’t end when the dance does. After the event, please make safe and responsible choices to protect yourself and others:
Stay Sober.
Avoid using alcohol or drugs as they can impair your judgement and put you at risk.
Look out for each other.
Stick with your group, check with your friends, and speak up if someone needs help.
Make a plan to get home safely.
Don’t drive if you are under the influence, and don’t get into a car with someone who has been drinking or using substances. Call someone for a ride or use a ride-sharing service if needed.
Stay connected.
Make sure a trusted adult knows where you are. Share your location with someone you trust.
Don’t let friends drive drunk.
If your friend has been drinking, take their keys and help them get home safely.
Set boundaries.
If you feel uncomfortable, remove yourself from the situation. Never feel pressured to do anything you don’t want to do. Don’t feel obligated to do more with someone if you don’t feel right or comfortable—even if they are your date.
Get consent.
Only a sober “yes” means yes. If someone feels pressured, unsure, or unable to consent, it’s not consent. Respect boundaries and listen if someone says no or changes their mind.
Call for help.
If you find yourself in a bad situation, call a trusted adult for help. It’s better to have your parents/guardians upset with you than to put yourself in danger. Your safety is always the most important thing.
Contact Information
Student Activities Office
W220 (The Hub)
Phone: (847)424-7949
Email: studentactivities@eths202.org

