School rules prompt alternative prom talk

Students who are reluctant to attend the WCHS prom because age restrictions prevent their dates from going are trying to organize an alternative prom at McMinnville Country Club.

?We?re trying to do something to let them wear their dresses and let them have their night,? said parent Sheryl Crouch, whose daughter is dating a 22-year-old who can?t attend the high school prom. ?We have too much invested in this, probably $400 to $500, to just let the dress sit in the closet.?

Parents say confusion over this Friday night?s high school prom at the Civic Center began about three weeks ago when they learned anyone 22 and over would not be admitted. They say the announcement came after they had already purchased dresses and rented tuxedos.

High school officials said students should have been aware no one over 21 could attend the prom through ?word of mouth.? The school board called a special meeting to consider changing the prom age restrictions but voted 4-2 to keep the current rules in place.

?We want to have an alternative prom, but right now we don?t have enough participation,? said parent Christy Barnes. ?If enough people want to do this, we can do it.?

Barnes says she can reserve the country club if at least 25 couples plan to attend. For $25 a couple, the country club will offer a buffet meal and the space for dancing. Barnes says a DJ has volunteered his services for the night.

?She has a dress and no place to go,? said Barnes referring to her daughter.

As for high school students attending the prom without their over-21 dates, parents say their children aren?t embracing that idea.

Anyone interested in attending an alternative prom can contact Barnes at 939-2470.