NKHS ‘Moment to Shine’ prom promotes love for all students

Brinley Samuels (center) smiles glows bright as mother Michelle (left) and father Wayne (right) poses for a picture at the “Moment to Shine” prom Monday afternoon.

Robb Johnson photo

In today’s world, negativity and judgment often blinds the heart and makes us forget that we are all human beings. Members of New Kent High School’s Renaissance Leadership Club made sure that an event for exceptional education students received the love they deserved for being true heroes that they are.

Approximately 30 special needs students from New Kent, Middlesex, and King William received a fabulous prom Monday afternoon. The prom was part of the leadership club’s initiative to work together to make the school environment a welcoming and positive place for all students and faculty.

“Our goal was to have a beautiful and memorable event for the special population,” said New Kent High School student Katelyn Gray. “I wanted the community to see an event that is not only positive and heartwarming, but brings us together.”

Through generous donations of time and items, students were able to have their hair and make-up done, professional photographers on hand, a DJ, catering, and more. A limo and a red carpet greeted the students in style, with many cheering them on from each step on the rug to the dance floor where everybody grooved to the music. All of these donations were free of charge to the students.

Volunteer students assisted with the five-hour event, with great care and consideration being taken into account to make sure no student was left behind in the festivities.

New Kent High School principal Chris Valdrighi commented about the effort and thought put into an event that turned out better than expected.

“I’m so proud that we were able to put this event on,” he said. “Getting other schools to participate along with our students just makes everyone feel good.”

Now considered as the “Moment to Shine” prom, the goal is to consider special needs kids and give them every opportunity that young adults would have at a regular prom.

“This event allowed us to interact with these very special friends of ours and make this a memorable and enjoyable afternoon,” Gray concluded.