In my day, we never had to PURCHASE tickets for school functions - some kids just don't have the funds - especially nowadays when the boys are expected wear tuxes - EVEN in middle school!
We tend to think of the big expense for girls and their gowns - and even though many can buy 'thrift' gowns, or make them, there is still the shoes, hair, etc.
But many boys = nor their parents = have the funds to rent a tux, buy flowers, dinner and often share in limo rentals...and double tickets...
These school functions need to be affordable for all - betcha there wouldn't be this trend,,,
That is stupid, and never should have gotten started.