Each year, our 8th graders have the opportunity to attend an End-of-Middle-School Dance that is sponsored by the parents with support from the administration/teachers. Students pay an admission to cover things such as a DJ and light refreshments. Traditionally, this dance is held in the middle school's gym which is lightly decorated for the occasion. The cafeteria is also open for refreshments which are mainly donated by parents plus manned by parent volunteers. Teachers serve as chaperones for the evening.
Students generally look forward to this special event and have gone to great lengths to look nice for the dance. It has been "semi-formal" in past years.
This year the administration is proposing a Hawaiian Luau theme for the dance. They are hoping to move away from the more formal trend of the past to help "lighten up" the festivities. Many of our girls are upset about the change since they view this their first big occasion to get all dressed up. They tend to have hair and nails done and wear dressy clothing and such. The boys have worn khakis and nice shirts in the past but some have even showed up wearing shorts.
I am involved with the parent group that is planning the dance for late June. Any suggestions on decorations to use for this school-based luau along with appropriate refreshments to serve the students that evening? I took an earlier suggestion from Carolyn and checked out alohafriends.com which has a terrific party planner helper. I'm not sure about the practicality of serving foods such as roasted pork and poi to 13/14 year olds. It would keep with the theme but most likely be given a "thumbs down" by the kids.
