The annual Upper School Semi-Formal event is set to take place this Saturday from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the Dining Commons, and students are excited to participate in its various activities.

This year, the theme is “Masquerade,” a play on the event’s mask requirements and the COVID-19 pandemic overall.

Associate Director of College Counselor Dona Rehm has worked to plan and facilitate this year’s dance alongside Upper School Senate President Ayanna Jefferson ‘22 and members of the Upper School Senate.

“The biggest changes in our Semi-Formal, due to COVID, is that we will be requiring rapid testing ahead of time, and masks will be required,” Rehm said.

Students will also be required to show proof of vaccination and wear a KN95, KF94, or N95 mask, and while outside guests are permitted, they are asked to follow the same precautions as student attendees.

“Despite these safety precautions, we hope the Semi-Formal will still be a fun event for all,” Rehm said. “Students should look forward to semi-formal because it is a great way to break out of your routine, get dressed up, and have fun with friends.”

Additionally, food and drinks that can easily be eaten with a mask on will be served at the event. The Senate is looking forward to this event, and faculty members are very excited to see the turnout.

Upper School Dean Paul Murray confirmed that there will be dancing, games, and a photobooth.

“[The event] is a really nice way to have something fun to do in the middle of winter,” Murray said. “It is usually attended by more than half of Upper School and is a nice way to blow off some steam.”

Senate member Stephanie Altschul ’25 has contributed to the planning of Semi-Formal and is optimistic that the event relieves stress for students.

“The whole plan of the event is to provide some super fun activities for high schoolers to do,” Altschul said.

Altschul believes that the Semi-Formal will be a safe and responsible event with safety precautions.

“Overall, we are super excited that the whole high school is invited and that people are finally able to bring their guests,” Altschul said.