Homecoming is a magical time for students across the United States. It’s one of the few events that brings the entire school together regardless of someone’s grade, social group, or interests.
While homecoming is a special event, it’s also a week-long event with a lot of specific days and miniature events going on during the whole celebration. Some people hold unique positions within homecoming, like the homecoming court, football game, and the Homecoming King and Queen.
That said, the homecoming court can be complex depending on the school, who’s involved, and what’s on the line. Read on to learn more about the homecoming court.
What Is Homecoming?
Homecoming is a popular event that takes place in college and high school. It began in colleges back in the 1910s and progressed to high schools in the 1920s. Over time, the tradition evolved and became the event that it is today, which is a week-long spirit week that culminates in a football game, pep rally, and sometimes even a dance.
Most schools have similar types of homecoming events, but each day might be unique. There is typically a team colors day, where students dress up in school colors, but other days may be things like hat day, superhero day, and even pajama day.
Depending on your school, these events and what you do at them may change, so it’s important to listen to announcements for your school.
What Is Homecoming Court?
Homecoming court isn’t a specific thing, but it’s a group of people. The people in the homecoming court are elected to it by their peers, and it’s considered a great honor to be included in the court.
Students tend to vote on the court, and the students running will run campaigns. In a way, it’s similar to an election process for a president or another political position.
The homecoming court is honored during the football game and at the pep rally. They may also be honored during the homecoming dance, which they may even help plan. While the members of the homecoming court tend to vary based on the school, there is almost always a Homecoming King and Homecoming Queen.
What’s the Selection Process for Homecoming Court?
The selection process for the homecoming court usually comes down to votes and students who nominate themselves. While some schools allow students to nominate themselves, this isn’t the same at every school. For example, some schools may require the faculty or other students to nominate them.
Many schools also have grade point average (GPA) requirements for students who want to become members of the homecoming court. Good attendance history and not being someone who’s often in detention will also improve their chances of being nominated.
What Positions Are in Homecoming Court?
The two most popular positions in the homecoming court are the Homecoming King and Homecoming Queen. In fact, some schools might only have these two positions. The Homecoming King and Homecoming Queen tend to be seniors, along with other members of the court.
Other common homecoming court members include a Duke and Duchess, along with assistance or aids if students get them. Students who have special needs may also have their own positions in the homecoming court.
It’s also important to note that this composition changes at all-boy or all-girl schools. In these cases, the Homecoming King may be elected alongside a Homecoming Prince. The opposite is true for Homecoming Queens and Homecoming Princesses.
What Does the Homecoming Court Have to Wear?
As someone in a political position or a position of high status at a school, members of the homecoming court should dress for success. While members of the court can follow the spirit week traditions, at the homecoming football game, pep rally, and dance, the court should dress up a little bit.
Typically, men will wear a suit or a button-up with a tie and dress pants; this tends to be the attire for the dance as well.
Women, on the other hand, have more creative liberty, but it’s still a good idea to keep things formal. While homecoming dresses aren’t as formal as prom dresses, you can find plenty of options that represent school colors – Sherri Hill’s homecoming dresses are offered in a wide variety of colors, so you’re sure to find something that will help you show school spirit.
Bring out the Finest of Homecoming Court
Homecoming is one of the most significant events during the school year. It’s one of the few events where students of all ages are grouped for a pep rally, dance, and football game.
While spirit week is meant to be fun, becoming a part of the homecoming court is a serious honor for students who are nominated. Homecoming Kings, Homecoming Queens, and other members of the court have a lot of respect and recognition.
If you plan on trying to get into your school’s homecoming court, make sure you dress for the part.