Westerville South’s Student Council is bringing an “Ocean Oasis” to school with the 2025 Homecoming dance, transforming the gym into a shimmering underwater escape and packing the days leading up to it with spirited fun.
The dance will take place on Saturday, Oct. 4 from 7–9 p.m. in the auxiliary gym. The time allocated for the event has been cut to two hours, compared to the three hours the previous year. This policy change is reflected district wide. Westerville South Principal Mike Hinze said he’s in full support of the change for the safety of students
In past years, HInze said there have been issues with students safely arriving home and at a decent time. The earlier ending, while not the most popular among students, is creating an avenue for a more safe and sound night for all of Westerville according to Hinze.
Senior Roan Stacey, however, believes that the earlier ending will end up, “causing more issues because students will be on the streets for more of the night instead of safe at school”. On the contrary, senior Elijah Jones is, “ excited to have more time to party after homecoming.” Regardless of the differing opinions, homecoming promises to be a blast for all.
With “Ocean Oasis” as the theme, decorations will feature waves of blue, and glowing sea-inspired details. The dance is expected to feel like students are in an underwater paradise with sea creatures and cool colors all around according to Melina Sahadevan, a member of Student Council.
Students are encouraged to dress in semi-formal attire, keeping the beachy yet elegant atmosphere in mind but any cute outfit is welcome.
To build up the excitement, students can join in on Spirit Week from Sept. 29-Oct. 3. Student Council members have tried to create the perfect week for Westerville South students.
Member Kathryn Cho, who’s working on the Spirit Week Committee said, “I’m looking forward to seeing spirit come alive in the halls, especially Flamingo Friday!” Each day has a special theme to show school pride and get everyone ready for the big game and dance.
Tickets are $10 per person. They will be on sale during all lunch periods in the athletic wing from Sept. 29–Oct. 3. All fees and fines must be paid in order to purchase tickets, and tickets will not be sold at the door.
If students want to bring in a friend from another school, dance guest forms must be turned in no later than Thursday, Oct. 2, by 3 p.m. Students can pick up a guest form from the office, outside of room 1302, or outside of room 1407.
With the dance also comes the homecoming court. Vote your favorites during second round voting this week, ending Sept. 26 and stay tuned for more voting Sept. 29–Oct.3. This year’s contestants have been campaigning left and right.
Senior Emily Whitehead, who’s running for court, said she has been, “advertising on social media, talking to people in the halls, and leaving messages on teachers’ whiteboards to spread the news.”
Ballot forms are out on the Pupil Services section on Schoology. Students may cast one ballot per round to show support for their peers.
Music will be provided by a DJ. Feel free to make song requests as well. And don’t forget, the Wildcats take on Delaware Hayes at the Homecoming football game on Friday, Oct. 3.
Pack the stadium, wear pink for Flamingo Friday, and show school spirit before heading into Saturday’s Ocean Oasis celebration.
Whether you’re cheering under the stadium lights or dancing under the glow of tropical waves, this year’s Homecoming promises memories you’ll never forget.
