Western-Star.com

LEBANON — Prom dates are special but none top this two hours of mingling and dancing for a group of students who might not have been able to attend their high school's big dance in April or May.

Lebanon High School held its first Daylight Prom for students with multiple disabilities on Friday afternoon, April 11. Thirty-three students from Lebanon, Little Miami and Springboro attended.

"Lorren loved it," said one Lebanon student's father, Don Wallingford. "It's her first time to have a prom dress – a real special time."

The girls chose their dresses from several that had been donated by other students, special education teacher Patty DeVer said.

Springboro student Ariel Blake, in a red, floor-length, strapless dress, said she was "very excited" when she was invited.

Barb Menke's son, Todd Burgess, had the privilege of attending his second prom, as he had previously been to a similar event at Franklin High School.

"I think this is an awesome idea," Menke said.

Todd's former aide, James Fulwiler, went to see Todd in his new shirt and tie, purchased especially for the occasion.

"It's neat to see the kids so excited to dress up and interact with other kids," Fulwiler said.

DeVer said she hopes this will be the first of many Daylight Proms, started to allow students who may not have the opportunity or the ability to attend their high school's prom. Students even had their official prom photos taken to immortalize their experience.

"It's a wonderful idea," Wallingford said. "It's real memorable."

Contact this reporter at (513) 696-4507 or rycook@coxohio.com.

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