Winter Formal, ETHS’ second dance of the school year, typically takes place in early December. The dance encourages students to come together in Beardsley Gym to dance, eat and celebrate. However, due to minimal attendance over the past few years, the 2025 Winter Formal is being replaced by a spring dance, Spring Fling.

While the Winter Formal did attract underclassmen and some upperclassmen, its attendance did not compare to dances like Homecoming and Prom. In recent years, questions about the dance’s appeal had been brought up by students and staff. Many students were discouraged from attending because they were unfamiliar with the dance.

“I just never really knew what it was,” said junior Gabby Webber. “Nobody I knew was going, so I didn’t feel pressured to go.”

Junior Ellie Nash attended the dance her freshman year. 

“I thought it was cute, but I think what made it not fun was the fact that no one went,” said Nash. 

Students have varying opinions on whether the school should organize a dance at all, especially a Winter Formal.

 “I think that the school should save money and not hold another Winter Formal due to [previous] low turnout,” said Nash.

According to Director of Student Activities Denise Clarke, attendance remained low after COVID-19, with fewer than 300 people attending the 2024 Winter Formal. However, she notes that smaller gatherings hold their own value. 

“The lower turnout wasn’t a disappointment; it gave my team and me insight into the needs of different student groups and reminded us of the importance of offering events for both small and large audiences,” said Clarke.

Even though the dance will not take place this winter, the Student Activities Office has plans to arrange a new dance in the spring. Spring Fling will be similar to homecoming in that all grades will have the opportunity to attend.  

In coordinating the new dance, Clarke is looking for student input and opinion. 

“Student feedback helps us improve and plan activities that reflect what the student body truly wants,” said Clarke. 

Despite the absence of Winter Formal, staff and faculty encourage students to engage in other winter school activities, such as sports events, community service and performances.