Prom is one of the most anticipated events of senior year, serving as more than just a dance, but one of the last times the upper class comes together before graduation. For many students at Coral Gables Senior High, it is the turning point that marks the end of high school and the beginning of what comes next.
This year, prom took place on April 24, at the Marriott in Brickell. The venue’s decoration gave the night a more upscale feel, with city views that made everything feel a little more special. Students spent the hours preceding prom getting ready for the night, with girls carefully doing their hair and makeup while their friends coordinated their ties and accessories to match. At 8 pm students arrived dressed up, took pictures with their friends and got ready for a night that most of them had been looking forward to all year.
The event itself would not have happened without the work of Student Activities and the teacher sponsors. Planning festivities like prom takes months and from the decorations to the schedule, a lot of effort went into making sure everything ran smoothly. Because of their dedication, the Class of 2026 was able to enjoy a night that felt organized, exciting and memorable.
“I have been a part of Student Activities since freshman year, so helping plan prom has always been something I looked forward to. But this year felt different, it was harder than last because it is the last big event for the seniors before they graduate. Over the years I have built friendships with many of them. Seeing them go is sad but I hope to see some of them in college,” junior Erick Del Valle said.
Music played a huge role in bringing people together throughout the night. When the DJ started playing popular music such as the “Macarena,” the majority rushed to the dance floor and became involved in the festivities. Instead of smaller groups sticking to themselves, the dance floor merged into a collective crowd doing the same moves together. Other songs like “FE!N,” kept the energy high and showed how different types of music could spark reactions, which made the night more exciting.
“I think it is nice to see how at events like prom you end up getting closer to people because everyone is dancing together and enjoying the moment knowing it is one of the last big events of high school. At the same time it is kind of sad to realize how many people we will not be able to see as much anymore. But it is exciting to see how many people we can still get to know,” senior Andres Espinoza said.
As the night went on, some of the most memorable moments came from spontaneous group activities, such as a conga line that quickly grew as more students participated and moved through the venue. People held onto each other and danced in synchronization, making the entire space more interactive. The photo station was also a popular feature throughout the night, where students gathered with their friends to take pictures that would become keepsakes. Whether friend groups were small or larger, everyone got a chance to capture the night and create memories they could look back on later.
Another part of the night that stood out was the dinner, having a full meal made the event feel more complete and added to the formal atmosphere. The main option was steak, which gave the night an elegant feel. Simultaneously, there were vegetarian and vegan options that made sure that everyone had something they could enjoy.
One of the biggest traditions of Prom was the crowning of Prom King and Queen, where students got the opportunity to vote for two attendees who would receive the award. This year, Linus Boettcher and Samantha Gonzales were given the titles. While it is often seen as a reflection of school spirit and involvement in the community, it also represents being recognized by their peers. When they were announced, the room filled with cheers and it became one of the standout moments of the night.
“I never expected coming into freshman year that Linus and I would win Prom King and Queen, so it was super surprising and exciting. I am really happy I got to experience it with all my friends and it is something I will always remember,” senior Samantha Gonzales said.
Being able to spend time with friends, take pictures and enjoy the night without academic worries made prom feel different from any other event during the year, marking one of the final times where everyone was in the same place having fun together.
“I think prom is really special because it is one of the only times where everyone just has fun together. It is nice seeing people you might not usually talk to all dancing and enjoying the moment together. It makes you realize how close everyone actually is as a class. Gables really does feel like a family,” senior Rafael Hanono said.
Prom is often described as one of the most meaningful milestones of high school and while each student experiences it in their own way, it leaves a lasting impression. Beyond the venue, the food, or the music, the night was defined by the people and the shared experiences that brought everyone together. It served as a reminder that the past four years have been filled with moments, friendships and growth that are now coming to a close. For the Class of 2026, prom was not just a celebration, but a chance to appreciate how far they have come and an opportunity to make the most of their time together before heading in different directions.
