Students Rally Against Durham Region Schools’ Prom Cancellations

Students at three high schools in Durham Region, Ontario, are voicing their disappointment following the cancellation of prom events planned for spring 2024. On March 10, students received a letter explaining that their schools would discontinue organizing formal proms due to increasing “expectations, liabilities, and risks” associated with school-run events. This decision has sparked significant backlash among the student body and parents alike.

Matthew Perry, a Grade 12 student at Brooklin High School, expressed his frustration with the abrupt cancellation. “It’s something that we look forward to at the end of the year,” he said. Another student, Carsen Brown, criticized the decision, stating it felt “a little disrespectful.” Brown raised concerns about the reasons for the cancellation, suggesting that the liability issues might be overstated. “It’s safe and I know it’s been that way for years,” he added.

The letter, obtained by CityNews, indicated that the school administration would no longer be responsible for after-parties, which students felt should not impact the school’s ability to host prom. In response to the cancellation, students organized a walkout on March 13, garnering parental support. One protesting student articulated the sentiment shared by many: “We’ve been waiting for a long time. Four years just for one night.”

Following the protest, the school administration sent an updated notice acknowledging the concerns raised by students and parents. The letter stated that the planning for prom would be paused to consider “responsive steps forward.” Despite these reassurances, students remain skeptical about the future of their prom.

Brooklin High’s principal did not respond to CityNews’ request for comment, but the issue has attracted attention beyond the school. Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy voiced her disappointment, recalling her daughter’s missed prom during the COVID-19 pandemic. “It’s the human nature that is taking it away,” Roy said, highlighting the emotional significance of the event.

Other schools in the region, including Uxbridge High School and Brock High School, have also decided to cancel their proms. The Durham District School Board has intervened, urging these schools to pause their decisions and engage in discussions with students and staff to explore alternatives that align with shared values.

“I honestly think that communication to the student council, but also to the parent council could have been handled differently and better,” Mayor Roy commented. The disparity in prom availability across schools raises further questions about equitable treatment.

In a show of solidarity, students have launched an online petition demanding the reinstatement of prom at Brooklin High School, which has already gathered over 2,900 signatures. Perry, along with his peers, is determined to continue advocating for their prom. “I hope that they rethink it,” he said, noting that alternative celebrations like mini-games on the field would not suffice.

As the situation continues to unfold, the future of prom for these students remains uncertain, but their collective voice is clear: they seek the opportunity to celebrate a cherished high school tradition.