Grade school dances were both the highlight of the academic year and the memories that make most people drink. This is especially true for Kaleb Mildwell, a 19-year-old homeschooler from Madison, WI. The Winter Formal dance has been a longtime tradition in the Mildwell household, as an attempt to give Kaleb a chance at the scarring memories that would make him fit in better with the rest of the world.
“I didn’t really mind the dance when I was a little kid,” says Kaleb, “but now that I have a boyfriend and he's ‘not allowed’ because he doesn’t go to the school, it’s just kinda weird.”
Kaleb’s mother Joanne Mildwell says the dance was an idea she got from a “mommy and me” bonding Facebook group 16 years ago.
“I know it's a little odd but it was just so much fun I never wanted to stop,” said Joanne. “Besides, I really think it helps bring me and my son closer together.”
Kaleb, on the other hand, disagrees. “I know it’s like good for old people to keep active but watching my mom and dad grind like middle schoolers really just opens up some psychological complexes I don’t have time for. And why does she have to keep saying ‘think you can handle this big boy?’ and stare right at me?”
Despite Kaleb’s protests, the dance is still scheduled to go on later this month, with Joanne Mildwell already excitedly choosing her dress.
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