Written By: Maddie Stokes and Aarshia Pandey

On November 22, 2025, Rye Country Day hosted its second annual Fall Formal for Upper School students. The formal was orchestrated by faculty members, including Mr. Kyle, and Student Body President Nola Coady ‘26. This year, the theme was chosen as Masquerade by the high school students.

Despite the formal being a new tradition, it has already become a new favourite school tradition among students. “I think the Formal was a major success,” says Coady. “We had a much better turnout and overall energy from the student body.” she continues. The reaction to the Formal was well received, with many students feeling that its production was interesting, thoughtful, and exciting. Coady goes on to explain that “there was a photo booth, fun decorations, and much more food than last year.” These intricate additions generated a lot of interest among the students—there was always a line for the photo booth and food! These increased options, engaging activities, and energetic music helped make this formal  a more lively and inclusive atmosphere. Additionally, the DJ there also contributed a major role to student engagement. “We had the same DJ as last year—DJ CJ—and I think he did a great job getting students on the dance floor,” Coady comments. His music choices were “perfect for maintaining a high energy throughout the night.” Coady continues, as he was playing a mix of popular songs that every student could sing along and dance to. 

As the years continue, RCDS hopes to keep hosting the Fall Formal. Mr. Kyle, the Upper School Dean of Students, believes that while it’s “still a relatively new tradition, the students coming up with it is what creates positive spirits and a fun event.” He notes how themes like “Masquerade” are great additions to these formals because they “represent the student body through collective voting,” allowing students to take part in configuring their own events. This had students enthusiastic for the formal and its decorations and activities, such as Alex Vlasto ‘28 who hopes it’ll become “a lasting tradition that students will enjoy just as much as my friends and I did.” He states how “the combination of upbeat music, good food, and friends made the experience so enjoyable, and I hope it keeps happening again.” Overall, the mix of thoughtful planning, engaging music, and student-centered activities made the formal a clear success and an incredibly memorable night!