As the final bell rang on Friday, Aug. 23, students who had just completed their first week of school raced home in anticipation of the Back to School Dance (BTSD). The BTSD took place in the quad from 7:30-10 p.m., with all grades invited to participate. The dance was less formal than Homecoming and Prom, as a way to bring students of all grades together and launch into the new school year.

For those like junior Nick Vicente who have attended a BTSD before, they enjoy the camaraderie and school spirit that comes with the event.

“The music is good and everyone is just having a good time. It really connects everyone in the Redwood community,” Vicente said. 

Vicente feels the BTSD is one of the year’s most anticipated events due to its place on the calendar and electric atmosphere.

 “[BTSD] is on the highest level because you just see everyone coming back from summer and it’s a great experience,” Vicente said.

Freshman Nico Post found that apart from the opportunity for music and dancing, the dance provided a chance to connect with old friends and make new ones.

“Meeting new people and connecting with old friends is very fun. A good way to start the year,” Post said. 

Post was aware that the BTSD dance was known to some as the highlight of the year, and was eager for the event. While the bar was set high for this year’s BTSD, he was satisfied with his experience. 

“I was very excited for tonight. I have heard so much about it and I’m glad I came,” Post said.

For sophomore Annabelle Mast, her second BTSD brought mixed emotions regarding the beginning of the school year. She found the event to be bittersweet, but enjoyable.

“I feel like [the dance] has made me realize that summer is really over. It kind of got me excited for this year,” Mast said.

While the music changes from song to song and genre to genre, students found that one thing that remains unchanged is the joyful experience of the BTSD. Many were delighted by the energy of the event and left with high expectations for years to come.