On Nov. 2, 2024, the Becton school gym was transformed into New York City for the annual Homecoming Dance. The Student Council came together to create an unforgettable evening, featuring staples from NYC such as the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, Times Square, Broadway, and the Union Square Subway Station. This year’s Homecoming Dance was especially memorable, drawing a record-breaking 375 attendees.
Many students view Homecoming Dance as one of the most unforgettable nights of the year. Sophomore Grant Padovano attests, “What wasn’t memorable? I had a great time socializing and just enjoying the moment with my friends.” Others fondly recalled singing, dancing, and capturing memories in front of the themed backdrops scattered throughout the gymnasium.
Seniors Alyson Alcantara and Sophia Offreda agreed that the theme was perfectly executed. Alcantara praised the customized Becton graffiti wall, calling it “extremely creative” and full of authentic city vibes. Offreda added, “I could barely tell I was still in the gym—it felt like I was strolling through the streets of New York! The team did a spectacular job decorating the space.”
Ms. Daniella Polmann and Ms. Jessica O’Driscoll spent months collaborating with the Student Council to plan every detail of the big night– from food choices and color schemes to decorations and budgeting. Their visions came to life with the help of BlingMyParty and their dedicated team of 10, along with Student Council members, who worked tirelessly from 8 AM until the start of the dance to revamp the gym into a dazzling New York City scene.
Reflecting on the night, Ms. Polmann shares, “Seeing the students dressed to impress, enjoying the atmosphere, and recognizing the hard work of the council and team was incredibly rewarding. It’s moments like these that make all the planning worthwhile.” She also extended her gratitude to the chaperones and maintenance team, saying, “Their support and dedication behind the scenes ensured the evening ran smoothly.”
The event’s creativity shone through in unique elements, such as newsstands featuring the Homecoming Royalty Court as front-page news, paired with vintage Cat’s Eye View newspapers. A giant NYC apple and a sparkling, twinkling city skyline added a magical touch to the dance. A special Broadway-themed backdrop highlighted Becton’s theater department’s upcoming production of Annie, alongside posters of other iconic shows.
Senior Gianna Viso described the refreshments as “a fantastic way to present the theme!” Staying true to tradition, Ms. O’Driscoll and Ms. Polmann ordered desserts from Veriella’s Bakery in Carlstadt. This year’s treats included an assortment of sweets decorated with iconic New York symbols such as the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, apples, and yellow cabs.
Students also enjoyed classic NYC-inspired delights, including pizza provided by Mr. Pizza and pretzels from the Pretzel Factory. With an abundance of food available, some lucky students even left the event carrying whole pizzas as leftovers!
The DJ from last year’s prom, Jimmy Hemp Productions, was able to attend, playing a variety of enjoyable and entertaining music, leaving students on the dance floor from start to finish. He will also be DJing this year’s prom, which will feature a ‘Night in Paris’ theme! Ms. Polmann intends to work closely with the Prom Committee to create an unforgettable evening, matching the extraordinary feelings of ‘Bright Lights, Becton Nights’!
