MARTINSBURG, W.Va. -- Jefferson County Schools proudly partnered with Berkeley and Morgan County Schools on the inaugural "Your Night to Shine: A Sensory-Friendly Prom." The March 25 event paired students with special needs with Neurotypical high school students across the Eastern Panhandle for a unique prom experience at the Airborne Church Events Center in Martinsburg.
Honored guests walked the red carpet before enjoying food, dancing, photos, laughter, and lively conversation. Sensory-friendly accommodations were available to all guests, and conversation cards, communication boards, and personal communication devices helped facilitate interaction among the attendees.
"I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to be a part of the first tri-county prom for students with special needs," said Haley Kern, Jefferson County Schools PERC. "It was great to see our students making both neurodiverse and neurotypical friends with peers from other schools and counties. And it's hard to say who had the best time - our students, their parents, or our volunteers!"
JCS is grateful to the many student and community volunteers who contributed to the event's success. Washington High School FFA members helped create sensory support tools, ensuring everyone could participate in the experience. Jefferson High School students donated attire for the event, while Kristopher Ridgley and Sam Carper provided music and entertainment for the evening. Students and staff across all three districts, licensed therapists, registered nurses, and members of local law enforcement all contributed their time and services to create a memorable evening that will be cherished by all who attended.
Photo credit: Lori Bayer Photography