Maude Cobb Convention Center hosts special needs prom

LONGVIEW, Texas (KLTV) - It’s May, and that means prom time for East Texas students, a time to make the memory of a lifetime.

But, it can be difficult for students with special needs to share in that experience. At Longview’s Maude Cobb activity center, dozens of school buses unloaded kids for the East Texas Special Needs Prom.

“We have invited and have about 600 students from East Texas, probably 40-43 schools represented in and around the area, to come and experience a prom that is specifically tailored for them,” said prom organizer Kathy Musick.

The theme was “let’s fiesta,” and it’s meant to allow kids with mental and physical disabilities to make their own prom memory.

“Looks so nice. I like the features, I like the music, I like the design outside. I dance, enjoy myself and relax,” said special needs student Sixto Rojas.

Many showing up in stylish suits and prom gowns came from all across East Texas.

“We have schools from Jacksonville, Waskom, to Wood County, down to Lufkin. They’re in a safe environment, and we’ve taken their unique needs into account,” Musick said.

With music, dancing and prom photographs, the event lets the kids make that lasting memory, just like anyone else.

“I like being able to be part of something they’ll remember, and being something that they always know will be there is the best thing ever,” said Harmony High School junior Emma Alphin.

The event was made possible through the Upshur County Shared Services Arrangement, which hosted the event now for the seventh straight year.

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