Prom with Purpose

In January, a junior student from Grand Rapids High School reached out to Itasca Area Schools Collaborative Executive Director, Jackie Skelly, because she had an inclusive idea that involved some of her fellow students.

Kayla Jenkins, a junior student athlete, envisioned an event that enabled students to experience prom in a new and accessible way. IASC was on board and agreed to help turn the idea into a reality. The purpose of the event wants to provide a sensory-friendly prom experience for students throughout IASC schools. The event came from an idea stemming from the Jostens Leadership conference that took place in the fall of 2023.

Jenkins made it her passion project and put in tireless hours planning, organizing, and communicating with IASC employees. When the time came, GRHS Student Council held meetings to choose a theme, acquire decorations, and plan the activities for the event, which included getting ready (nails, hair, and makeup), coloring stations, board games, cornhole, a Grand March, and of course the dance.

Last Friday, April 19, GRHS Student Council hosted the first annual IASC Prom with Purpose at the Cohasset Community Center. GRHS Unified Students, and Greenway and Deer River’s student council members also joined in on the fun. Attendees were from different area schools : GR, Greenway, Remer, and Deer River.

The day started at 9:30 in the morning for the participants to prepare for prom. At 10:30 - noon they were able to enjoy a delicious lunch served by the ISD 318 Food and Nutrition staff. The Grand March happened at noon and then the dancing commenced.

A crowd gathered together for the event with more than 50 student attendees, 40 students helpers, teachers, Education Support Professionals, and parents came to the event. The Student Councils and IASC wanted to give a big shout out and thank you to everyone who helped make the event possible. Everyone is excited that it’s the first annual prom and foresee the event growing with time.

For the sensory-friendly experience, there were games, a quieter room set up if needed, headphones, and other things to manage the social atmosphere.

Skelly said they started planning it in January and she was incredibly proud of the work being done, “this was all done by kids.” Because of the short time frame, they were able to secure some sponsors or donations from local businesses. Skelly said they wouldn’t say no to the event due to money though and are still looking for donations to help pay for the event.

If any business or agency would like to donate to help cover expenses for this year and/or for planning of next year's event, they can send donations to:

Itasca Area School Collaborative

Attn: Prom with Purpose

601 7th Street SW

Grand Rapids, MN 55744

If there are other contributions any group would like to make, they can contact Jackie Skelly via email or phone at:

Jackie Skelly - IASC Executive Director

jskelly@isd6070.org

218-327-5711