Fox and Seckman high schools held special dances near the end of April.
Fox High in Arnold on April 24 held a Unity Ball, an all-inclusive prom-style dance for students with special needs, and Seckman High in Imperial held a similar dance on April 25. The dances were held in the schools’ common areas and gyms.
“The Unity Ball provides an inclusive, sensory-friendly environment where all students can come together to socialize, dance and build friendships,” said Sarah Shackelford, a post-secondary transition specialist at Fox High. “This event also brings together general education students, including cadets and National Honor Society members, with students in special-education programs, helping foster meaningful connections that extend beyond the classroom. It continues to grow each year.”
Shackelford said 25 students attended this year’s Unity Ball.
She said the ball had a carnival theme, and National Honor Society members used bright colors, festive decorations and interactive elements that captured the fun and excitement of a carnival.
“They created engaging stations, photo opportunities and game areas to give students a full experience beyond just dancing,” she said. “Students really embraced the carnival theme. The decorations, games and overall atmosphere created an engaging environment where students felt comfortable, excited and included. It added an extra level of fun that made the night feel unique and memorable.”
Shackelford said students who attended the ball were surprised by The Knot, a St. Louis transportation company, donating a limo bus for the event.
“Students and staff were able to ride the bus and take photos, and it quickly became one of the highlights of the evening,” she said.
Shackelford said Fox High science teacher Matthew Freeman, who also owns Imperial Illuminations, set up lighting for the ball, and photography teacher Mitchel Bartnick and some of his students took pictures throughout the event.
She said the ball would not be possible without the assistance of staff and students, specifically Brianna Wolk and the National Honor Society students.
“They organize every detail from decorations and meals to music and special recognitions like Unity Ball King and Queen,” Shackelford said of the National Honor Society members. “Their dedication, along with the support of staff, sponsors and administrators makes this a truly special night and highlights the strong inclusive culture at Fox High School.”
Angela Pettus, a Seckman High special services teacher, said about 35 students attended the All Abilities Prom at the school.
She said Student Council members, who are advised by Valerie Adkins, Allie Maledy and Sandy McCabe, organized the dance.
Pettus said the theme for the dance was “Minecraft,” a popular video game that allows players to explore, gather resources and build structures in a block-based virtual world.
“Our Student Council decorated the gym and even had our students color some Minecraft themed sheets, so they could recognize their work when they arrived,” Pettus said. “Our Student Council always does the best job with their decorations and staying true to the theme. It was fantastic. The Minecraft theme was intriguing for all of our students.”
Pettus said Student Council members invite students from neighboring schools and districts, and they receive donations to provide food and entertainment at the dance.
“Student Council members also attend and dance the night away with all of their friends,” she said. “In addition, they organize monthly ‘hangouts’ with our students throughout the school year. Those hangouts result in a lot of friendships and relationships built, which then create a fun atmosphere at prom for everyone to dance with their buddies and friends.”