Homecoming & Prom Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

About the Events

  • What is Homeschool Homecoming?

    Homeschool Homecoming is a semi-formal fall dance for homeschool students and guests. 


    Featuring heritage dancing with Lori Borre, the caller who makes heritage dancing ridiculously fun and modern music with the ONE and ONLY DJ Iman Tucker. 

  • What is The Enchanted Prom?

    The Enchanted Prom is a black-tie formal dance in late April for homeschool students and guests at the Indiana Roof Ballroom. 


    Featuring heritage dancing with Lori Borre, the caller who makes heritage dancing ridiculously fun and modern music with the ONE and ONLY DJ Iman Tucker. 


  • What is the difference between HOCO and Prom?

    Homecoming is a lively semi-formal fall reunion celebration featuring an energetic themed atmosphere. 


    It's a party top to bottom and honors homeschool communitites and sports clubs.


    HOCO is big-energy Heritage Dancing with Lori Borre, and as always, modern music with DJ Iman Tucker


    Prom is a formal spring gala that celebrates the end of the year and honors seniors and their parents as they prepare for the next chapter of life.


    The themes are elegant and timeless, and

    waiters serve a formal 3 or 4 course sit down meal. 


    Heritage Dance by Lori Borre includes a grand, elegant opening with a little more ceremony, polish, and old-world glamour, before gradually letting its hair down and giving way to the celebration of the year. 


    Of course, the one and only DJ Iman Tucker brings the party.


  • Why is this different than a typical school dance?

    We are intentionally different than typical school dances, or even typical homeschool dances. We have really thought outside the box. 


    Most dances are a loud party with half the room on the wall. Our dances are more an emersive experience than a "dance."  You have to experience it to believe it. Words won't adequately describe it. 


    Instead of standing around the edges of the room, most students are dancing. 


    Instead of couple-focused slow dances, students are engaged in high-energy fast paced premium heritage dancing, where they meet lots of other students and begin to form community. 


    Instead of a "typical" DJ, we have the one-and-only DJ Iman Tucker, the Pacer's DJ, who engages with the kids and creates the vibe. 

  • Why is this different than other homeschool dances?

    First of all, we view Prom season the same way as "Ball" season in Vienna. Attend ALL the proms if you can! Having said that... 


    Most homeschool dances are formed out of a particular group or co-op. Ours was designed to give students of all homeschools the opportunity for something truly unique. Students come from across Indiana, the Midwest, and further -- because the night is built differently, and because many of them already dance together at our other events throughout the year. 


    That year-round community changes what the floor can hold. The "if you know, you know" dances are too challenging to be called or taught from the stage. Those one or two dances are the height of the evening for many of the students. We know of no other dances in the world that attempts them in a room this size. And for those who don't know them? It's only about 6-8 minutes. They can use that time to grab some water or visit the photo booth. 


    We have intentionally taught swing routines at our practice sessions and throughout the year, so if you watch our swing snowball, you will see spins, lifts, and dips, not just a handful of couples and a wall of spectators.  The best part is those students are now teaching all the other attendees. And again, if swing is not for you, then those songs are your chance to grab a snack. 


    Heritage dancing is not an afterthought. It is half the night, and we shape the room, the venue, and the music around it. 


    Finally, we do not play slow danes. No one is "set up" for that awkward pressure. The evening stays in motion -- everyone together. 



  • What can attendees expect from the overall experience?

    Many students have said, "This was the best night of my life." 


    Attendees can expect the best of the best, a memorable evening of heritage dancing, peak modern dance, food, fellowship, refreshments, and opportunities to connect with students from homeschool communities across the region. 


    Our goal is to create an experience that students will remember for years to come.

  • Is dance instruction included?

    Yes. This dancing is perfect for absolute beginners who "don't dance."


    Because they require no "technique" or extra skill, it takes next to no time to teach the students what to do and start dancing! 

  • Who hosts these events?

    Both cornerstone dances are produced by Steps in Time, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to bringing (Christian) heritage dance as you've never experienced it before to the next generation. 


    Learn more at the "About Us" Steps in Time page linked here.

Eligibility & Attendance

  • Who can come to Homecoming or Prom?

    Both events are open to eligible students (and homeschool alumni) who meet the age and participation requirements--typically between 14-20 years old as of the date of the event.

  • Do attendees have to be homeschooled?

    These events are primarily designed for homeschool students, but we allow for small Christian school attendees as well. 


    Homeschool attendees are allowed to bring a non home-schooled guest. 

  • Can I bring a guest?

    Please do! Guest requirements will be listed on the event registration page. 

  • Do I need a date?

    No! 


    Most activities are designed for broad participation, and many students attend with friends or on their own. 


    Our events focus on community, friendship, and shared experiences rather than dating.


    Having said that, if you want to come with a date, then please do! 

  • Is there a minimum age requirement?

    Yes. Please see the eligibility requirements listed for the specific event... typically at least 14 years old as of the event date. 


    We do understand that some 13 year old students are just "more mature" and their parents are certain they would fit right in.  


    Sometimes those students have the once-in-a-lifetime chance to attend with an older sibling. 


    We encourage the parents to do what they think is best in those cases. 

  • Can homeschool alumni attend?

    We love alumni! Yes! 


    Attendance is limited to those who meet the event's eligibility guidelines... typically 20 years as of the event date. 



  • Can siblings attend?

    YES, of course! Anyone who meets the eligibility requirements is welcome!

  • How is eligibility verified?

    Eligibility is confirmed during registration. There's no such thing as a "homeschool ID" so really, attendance is up to the parents or guardians.


    As a side note, this is one reason we do not "advertise" via paid google ads. If you're aware of our dances, it's probably because a good friend told you about it. That's how we want it. 


    We don't want to be the biggest anything. We are focused on being the BEST, and that means attracting "our" sort of kids: the genuinely kind ones who like to dance and include everyone.  

Registration & Tickets

  • What does the ticket include?

    Admission to the Indiana Roof Ballroom for 5 hours of non-stop fun plus:

    • Dinner (HOCO and Prom have different dinners.)
    • Heritage Dancing
    • DJ Dancing
    • Professional Photo Booth Photos
    • Keepsakes
    • Atmosphere
    • Friends
    • Memories
    • Christian Culture in real time

  • That seems like a lot of $

    This ticket is a whole experience, not a door fee. 


    It covers the Indiana Roof Ballroom, the live musicians, DJ Iman Tucker, dinner service, table assignments, photo booth, photographer, decorations, ticketing fees, room rental, professionally called dancing, mementos, little extras, and even the price of turning on the twinkle lights. 


    The tickets are priced to break-even right around sell-out, and we limit the ticket numbers so everyone has a chance to dance well.  


    We take no administrative fees. This is our gift to the homeschool community. 


    We understand. Having six homeschool sons of our own, the price of these dances can really add up. We look at it this way: 


    The cost of all these things... over $100. 

    The experience? Priceless. 



  • When does registration open?

    We always give first crack at the next dance to those who attended the last dance as a "thank you" for their support! 


    This matters, because our events sell out every time. If you're one of "our people" we can't imagine you not being there. 


    Registration dates vary by event and are announced on the event page and through email updates. 

  • When does registration close?

    Registration closes before the event or when capacity is reached.

  • Will tickets be available at the door?

    No. Final numbers are due to the venue days in advance. 

  • What happens if the event sells out?

    Registration will close once capacity has been reached, and a waiting list will be opened. 


    If more spaces open, waiting list contacts will be notified.

  • How do I get tickets?

    Registration is completed online through the event's ticketing website.

  • Can I transfer my registration to another person?

    We are happy to accommodate this. Please send us an email. 


    We reserve the right to charge a small fee for the transfer of a ticket. 

  • What is the refund policy?

    We cannot offer refunds. We are happy to transfer your ticket to someone else. 

  • Will I receive a confirmation email?

    You will receive a confirmation email after successfully completing registration.

Attire & Dress Expectations

  • What should I wear?

    Attendees should wear attire appropriate for the formality of the event and consistent with the event dress code. 


    Homecoming is less formal and often themed (1920s, for example), while Prom is a black-tie event.

  • Are Homecoming and Prom dress expectations different?

    Yes. Homecoming is semi-formal, typically with a historical decade theme each year, while Prom is a formal black-tie event with elegant attire appropriate to the evening's theme. Specific guidance is provided on each event page.

  • Are tuxedos required?

    No. 


    Formal attire is encouraged for Prom, but a tuxedo is not necessarily required.

  • Are formal gowns required?

    Formal attire is expected for Prom; 


    Homecoming is semi-formal, and the guidelines are presented on the event page. 

  • May I wear military, cultural, or historical attire?

    In some cases, yes. If you have questions about a specific outfit, please contact event staff before the event.

  • What if I'm unsure whether my outfit meets the dress code?

    We encourage you to contact us before the event so we can help you avoid any uncertainty.

  • Where can I find the complete dress code policy?

    The full Dress Code Policy is available from both the event and ticketing websites.

Dancing & Activities

  • Do I need dance experience?

    Not at all. Beginners are welcome.

  • Are beginners welcome?

    Absolutely. Most attendees arrive with little or no prior experience. Instruction is provided throughout the evening, and experienced dancers help create a welcoming environment for newcomers.

  • Will there be opportunities to practice before the event?

    Yes, we typically offer dance practices and other events before our main events.

  • Do I need to come with a partner?

    No. Heritage dancing is designed around group participation, so attendees do not need to bring a partner to enjoy the evening.

  • Can attendees participate without dancing?

    Yes. While dancing is encouraged, attendees can also enjoy socializing, activities, refreshments, and the overall experience. Having said that, 95% of attendees are typically dancing at any given moment.

  • Are heritage dances taught?

    Yes! 


    Instruction typically precedes each heritage dance prior to dancing with music and calling.

  • What is heritage dancing?

    Heritage dancing includes historic social dances that were enjoyed by previous generations and adapted for today's students. 


    These dances encourage participation, interaction, movement, and fun, making them a favorite part of the evening for many attendees.

  • Why do so many students participate in the dancing?

    This is a hard one. As the French would say, "Je ne sais quois." 


    It's the culture we've built. Kids come to our dances because they want ... to dance. 


    First-timers feel swept up.

    Old-timers help the newbies. 

    There's no pressure. It's just the thing to do because everyone is having a blast doing it.  


    When it comes to the modern dancing, well THAT... comes down to DJ Iman. There's simply no-one like him and the way he brings the energy to the floor. 

  • Who is the dance caller?

    Dance caller Lori Borre, known for turning a room full of strangers into a dancing community. 


    With infectious energy, musicality, wit, and a keen instinct, she gets the kids going like no-one else. 

  • Will DJ IMAN be bringing the modern dancing?

    From the Indiana Pacers to the Indiana Roof, and from the NBA All-Stars to the Indy 500, the back-to-back Midwest DJ of the Year, Iman Tucker brings the crowd to life.  


    He's not background music. He's the reason the party happens.  

  • Is the swing dancing taking over the heritage and DJ dancing?

    Nope! The 16 piece big band orchestra is playing before and during dinner as well as with the first set of heritage dancing! 


    That allows for a LOT of swing dancing without compromising any of the heritage or DJ dancing! 

Parents & Chaperones

  • May parents attend?

    These dances are for students only. 


    Parents are invited in towards the end of the evening to experience the show from the balcony.  Don't be late. You won't want to miss a moment. 

  • Are parents allowed to observe?

    Yes! Towards the end, we invite parents to come watch the festivities from the balcony and in the case of Prom, to dance with their senior. 


    Watch for tickets to open for parent registration. 

  • Are events chaperoned?

    Yes! 


    We have the hardest working chaperones on the block. They: 

    • assist with dancing
    • keep an eye on conduct guidelines
    • help students in need
    • assist with dress code issues
    • escort students to their car if needed
    • guard the doors at all times

    We have one chaperone per 10-15 students. 

  • How is attendee safety managed?

    The Indiana Roof provides safety staff.

  • What behavior is expected of participants?

    Code of conduct expectations are made available for each event during ticket registration, consistent with following Steps in Time policies on Volunteer and  Operations linked here.

  • What happens if event rules are violated?

    Event staff may take appropriate action, including asking a participant to leave the event if necessary.

  • How can parents contact staff during the event?

    Contact information and emergency procedures will be provided before the event.

  • How are emergencies handled?

    Staff follow established procedures to respond appropriately to emergencies and communicate with parents when needed.

Venue & Event Logistics

  • Where are the dances held?

    The Historic Indiana Roof Ballroom, the "most danceable surface in the world." 

  • Why is the Indiana Roof Ballroom such a special venue?

    This historic ballroom seems to have been designed just for us. 


    Its spacious circular layout, floating wooden dance floor, and elegant atmosphere make it uniquely suited to the experience we create. 


    On top of that, anyone who has experienced their "Be Our Guest" signature wait service knows... 


    There's simply nothing like the Indiana Roof Ballroom. 

  • Why do you limit attendance?

    We intentionally limit attendance to preserve the quality of the experience. 


    Heritage dancing works best when dancers have room to move, the floor isn't crowded, and everyone can participate comfortably. 


    The Indiana Roof Ballroom gives us the space and layout we need, but we still choose not to oversell the event. We'd rather provide an exceptional experience than squeeze in more attendees. 

  • When should attendees arrive?

    Arrival times are listed on the event schedule. Arrive EARLY for the full experience. 


    Take your photos in front of our red-carpet step-and-repeat, check in and head upstairs. 

  • What time does the event end?

    At the stroke of midnight. 

  • Is parking available?

    Parking information will be provided with the venue details.

  • Will refreshments be provided?

    Homecoming attendees can expect a festive station-style meal that fits the theme. This year is sliders, fries, quesadillas, and more. 


    Prom attendees are served a  three (sometimes four) course sit-down formal dinner served by waiters, as only the Indiana Roof can do. 


    There is also a beverage bar with different options. 


    Water is available throughout the evening.

  • Where do I put my personal belongings?

    Every student receives a table assignment so they can have a "home base." 



  • Is the venue accessible?

    Yes!  You can reach the dance floor through elevators and ramps. 

  • What happens if severe weather occurs?

    Any changes or cancellations due to weather will be communicated through the contact information provided during registration.

Policies & Expectations

  • What policies apply to Homecoming and Prom?

    All applicable Steps in Time policies apply to attendees, guests, and families participating in these events.


    View Steps in Time policies here.

  • Where can I find the official Steps in Time policies?

    Official policies are available on the Steps in Time Policies page.


    View Steps in Time policies here.

First Time Attendees

  • I've never attended a dance before. Will I fit in?

    Absolutely. Many students attend for the first time every year. Instruction is built into the evening, and most students quickly discover that the dances are easier, more engaging, and more enjoyable than they expected.

  • What if I don't know anyone?

    You're not alone. Many students arrive without knowing anyone and leave having made new friends. One of the strengths of our events is that they are designed to help students meet new people. Heritage dances, activities, and shared experiences naturally encourage interaction throughout the evening.

  • What if I'm nervous about dancing?

    That's completely normal. Most students begin the evening feeling a little uncertain, but once the dances start and everyone joins in, those nerves usually disappear quickly.

  • What should I bring?

    Bring yourself, a positive attitude, and any items specifically requested in the event information.

  • What do most first-time attendees wish they knew beforehand?

    Most students wish they had worried less. You don't need dance experience, a date, or a large friend group to enjoy the evening. Just come ready to participate and have fun.

  • Can I attend by myself?

    Yes. Many attendees come on their own and have a wonderful time.

  • Will there be opportunities to meet new people?

    Yes. The structure of the evening encourages interaction, participation, and meeting other students.