At Kelly Walsh High School, the tradition of girls asking boys to the Coed Ball is something that sets our high school apart and brings charm to these social events.

This tradition has been admired for years, creating an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation amongst many. With the dance approaching, girls are starting to step up and ask boys to the event. This creates lots of excitement as students are eager to see who will step up and make the first move.

“I think boys should ask girls to dance,” junior Parker Giese said.

Giese plans to ask a boy to Coed and highlights the ongoing conversation about gender roles and traditions at Kelly Walsh.

Giese’s view adds an interesting perspective to the ongoing conversation about who should make the first move. While many enjoy the tradition of girls asking boys, it’s clear that opinions vary, making our schools’ social events more dynamic and exclusive.

“It is a good idea that girls ask boys to the dance, I think it shows that not only boys are obligated to ask. I think it broadens many students’ perspectives on the dance,” sophomore Maya Crum said. 

Crum’s view emphasizes the value of breaking traditional norms and highlights how this practice encourages inclusivity and open-mindedness among students. By allowing girls to take the initiative, the dance becomes a more equal and engaging experience for everyone, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and mutual respect.

Breaking gender roles through this encouragement is a significant step in promoting equality and empowerment. The shift not only helps to build self-esteem but also encourages girls to take care and make their own choices fostering a sense of empowerment. This shift helps create a more balanced and respectful environment, where both boys and girls express their interest in taking the lead.

“I feel the tradition of girls asking boys is easy if you are already in a relationship, but outside of relationships it’s nerve-racking to ask another boy,” sophomore Tillie Holthouse said. 

Holthouse will be going to the dance with her boyfriend but the process feels natural and straightforward because she’s dating, making it less stressful.  She empathizes with those who are not in relationships, recognizing the pressure and anxiety they might feel when making the first move. This proves the different experiences students face when participating in this tradition.

“I’m looking forward to the dance because I think getting to be with all my friends and going to dinner is the best part of it. I decided to go with my friends because I go every year with them. I feel going to Coed with friends is better because it is less stressful because you don’t have to make a sign, worry about matching, or have much preparation,” said Giese.

Elaborate proposals are expected when asking someone to Coed and Giese doesn’t like dealing with all of those details.  This relaxed approach allows her to fully enjoy the evening, focusing on the fun and companionship that comes with being surrounded by her closest friends.

Kelly Walsh High School’s Coed Ball is a long-standing tradition that continues to generate excitement as the students embrace the opportunity for girls to ask boys to the event.

It’s important to recognize everyone’s standpoint on going to Coed can differ. Some people may prefer to go with friends and not feel like they have to ask anyone at all, while others might find it nerve-wracking to ask someone.  These different perspectives create an environment where everyone feels comfortable and included regardless of how they participate.