Through the decades of the nationally famous Pennsbury High School’s senior prom, partakers have never ceased to impress and fascinate. On Friday, local students, almuni, parents, faculty and volunteers gathered amongst the first floor of the highschool to begin the hours long process of arranging what is known as “the best prom in America.’ Throughout the day students attached squares of masking tape throughout the entire first floor in order to accommodate student and faculty painted murals, hung throughout decade themed hallways to celebrate every ten years in America’s history since 1840.
The year long process, directed by Art Department Chairs and Faculty Prom Advisors, Tony Napoli and Curtis May began at the end of last school year when then Pennsbury juniors chose the prom’s theme and elected their 45 prom chairs. Over the summer both Napoli and May worked together in designing the floor plan and the murals to accompany each decade and each hallway. Beginning in January, parent volunteers worked Monday through Thursday during the evenings to assist in set design. And in March, after the completion of Pennsbury’s Sports Night, seniors were able to focus primarily on the completion of the design and art work needed to transform their typical high school to a glowing time capsule of excitement and monumental experience.
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Sara Elwell, Katie Smith, and Emily Herbert stated that for them being seniors and prom chairs it was tough to juggle school responsibilities, a part time job, and assisting with the prom efforts, but they were quick to rejoice in fond memories they had made in the process.
The project, tale as old as time, has always received alarming support from parents and alumni. It is estimated by current Pennsbury High School’s Co-Principal for the East Campus, Shawn Neeley that hundreds of parents have assisted in the end result of this years prom. “My job is to simply give them the room, and get out of the way,” he said with a grin and a chuckle. “The best part for me is seeing how the community comes together and gets involved.” Lyn Coburn, began volunteering with Pennsbury’s prom in 1994, and has participated every year since, for her although its tough work, its most importantly fun, and that’s why she comes back year after year.
The time traveling adventure is complete with an 1840’s themed entrance way complete with all the trimmings of a western prarie, a 1950’s themed dining hall (which will be equipped to serve a full course dinner complete with linen table cloths, centerpieces, and fine silverware), and a 1970’s themed dancefloor which will include a 12 foot in diameter hand made disco ball to hang above the students as they dance the night away.
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Pennsbury’s East Campus will open for public viewing at 12 pm May 18, 2013.
