First ever district-wide Winter Formal unites PYLUSD high schools

On Saturday, January 25, over 2,000 Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District (PYLUSD) high school students assembled to attend the first ever district-wide Winter Formal. The event was held at the Discovery Science Center in Santa Ana, with the chosen theme of “Avengers Assemble.” The theme was a reminder of the District’s core values, collaboration and innovation, as PYLUSD is the first and only school district in Orange County to host a shared formal dance event.

Students from El Camino, El Dorado, Esperanza, La Entrada, Parkview, Valencia, and Yorba Linda high schools were in attendance, along with teachers, staff members, and administrators. The anticipation from students and staff shined throughout the weeks leading up to the groundbreaking event. From dress-up days to trivia to scavenger hunts, each high school presented a unique and thrilling way to promote the event and excite their students.

The event not only included an ice cream cart, chocolate fountain, magician, photo booth, pool tables, gaming tables, and a 12 piece swing band, but the Discovery Science Center was entirely reserved for PYLUSD high school students that evening. Students enjoyed all the attractions and exhibits the Science Center had to offer. The event was more than just dancing, it was an opportunity to explore and collaborate with fellow PYLUSD students.

As an added layer of excitement and inclusion, the elected Winter Formal Court was made up entirely of PYLUSD Unified Sports athletes. Unified Sports is a program on PYLUSD high school campuses that unites Special Olympics athletes and general education partners to train and compete together.

Esperanza’s Activities Director Meghann Lukach shared, “It was exactly what PYLUSD is all about, collaboration, innovation, community, and engagement. I am so excited that all of the high schools were determined to make this idea a reality for our kids.”

The “Avengers Assemble” Winter Formal brought together PYLUSD high schools in a show of unity. The night was a great opportunity to work together through a responsible, inspirational, and creative event.