Prom was huge in my hometown. Like most, it was jr/sr. but you could go as a frosh and soph if a jr/sr. asked you. Luckily, I had an older boyfriend so I was able to attend all four years' proms. Soooo much fun. Getting all dressed up, going to the after parties (except I had to be home by 2 my freshman year.) I really enjoyed it.
My mom didn't go to hers because she was dating my dad and he was in Vietnam. I think that is probably why she was so gung ho and all into me getting to go and having my dream dress every year, etc.
We did it all though. It was a huge deal. Hairdressers in the morning. Makeup lady after that. Then meet with other couples, visit everyone's house for photos, then go to the photographer for sitting, then out to dinner at swanky restaurant then to the prom. I'll never forget it. Always a blast.