The Daytime Prom: A Chance to Dance Spectacle

April 19, 2026 - Liv D'Alessandro (11)

While other students were gearing up for exams on March 17th, our Hough High School gymnasium was turned into a haven of green, luck, and inclusivity. With the theme of St. Patrick's Day, the Daytime Prom was an event held for our school’s EC department.

The event was the result of the Chance to Dance club, which has been active since 2016. Although it is Advisor Ms. Riley who ensures everything runs smoothly, the preparation process itself shows the strength of student-led clubs at Hough. The event was organized by co-presidents Sadie Cason (9) and Adie Williams (9), along with the help of the remaining Chance to Dance crew, Best Buddies, and Leadership students.

Parameters for Success

A sensory-friendly prom means not only lowering the volume of the music but also creating conditions for comfortable dancing. Considering that students from the EC department have better results when given clear boundaries, the Chance to Dance team came up with the idea of using "rainbow links" as the dance's perimeters.

"We had definitive boundaries we needed," Ms. Riley said. "Being able to remain within the rainbow lines provided the students with a sense of security and comfort."

Additionally, the gymnasium itself was divided, which helped provide an intimate environment conducive to sound during the event. Lights were dimmed, and the playlist included songs selected in advance by the EC students who submitted their selections.

Having the privilege to attend the event myself, “Soda Pop” from K-pop Demon Hunters, and all the line dances were fire.

Eden Harper (far left)

Moments That Sparkled

The DJs personalized the dance by shouting out to every participant, giving each individual a special moment.

As student volunteer Eden Harper (12) of Best Buddies said, this afternoon was all about connection-making.

"It was really great," Harper stated. "A lot of those students enrolled in special education classes never actually attend the prom that takes place at night because of nerves. This was a great way for them to be able to attend it without feeling overwhelmed."

More than just an opportunity to volunteer, the event provided insight into Harper's future career path. Having discussed her post-graduation plans with her counselor, she will specialize in Special Education.

Ten-Year Tradition

It is the tenth anniversary of Ms. Riley's work at Hough. According to her, the most fulfilling aspect of the day was that the mainstream students did not dominate the event, despite having helped plan it. It was the students within the EC department who easily took over with their dancing and flair. In addition, the club's and Leadership's interaction made the event successful, as it aimed to make EC kids feel they belonged at Hough.

"It makes them feel very special and welcomed," Riley added. "The engagement of the club and its leadership was excellent. Everybody made a big fuss when students came in and out." She is referring to the human tunnel members made when they walked through the doors, hyping them up.

Now, as the "rainbow links" are dismantled and St. Patrick's Day props are being put away, it has become clear that each student has a special place at Hough.

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