For the first time in Elgin County, Developmental Education students from across four local high schools came together for a prom designed entirely with inclusion, accessibility, and community in mind.
Hosted at Central Elgin Collegiate Institute (CECI), the Best Buddies Prom welcomed more than 150 students, staff, and peer leaders from CECI, Arthur Voaden Secondary School, Parkside Collegiate Institute, and East Elgin Secondary School.
The event transformed the school library into a full prom experience, complete with food, dancing, professional photography, decorations, and quiet sensory-friendly spaces.
Brianna Dennison, Developmental Education teacher at CECI, says the prom had been a dream project for staff and students involved in the Best Buddies program, with peer leaders helping organize and set up the celebration.
As mentioned, community support played a major role in making the event possible. Local photographers and decorators volunteered their services, while others helped students prepare for the big day. The YWCA’s “Get Gorgeous for Grad” program also assisted with pre-prom fittings.
During the event, students had the opportunity to enjoy a variety of prom activities tailored to different comfort levels and accessibility needs. Alongside a dance floor featuring “Just Dance,” organizers also created a silent disco where students could control the volume and music through wireless headphones.
A dedicated sensory room offered lower lighting, crafts, and quieter seating spaces for students needing a break from the excitement.
Dennison says one of the most meaningful parts of the day was watching students reconnect with longtime friends.
The Best Buddies Prom also capped off a successful year for CECI’s Best Buddies program. Grade 12 student leader Janay Gillard recently received a 2026 National Volunteer Award from Best Buddies Canada for her contributions throughout the school year.
Community members looking to support the local Best Buddies program can purchase merchandise through the “Blooming Together” campaign, adds Dennison.
The designs feature flower artwork created by local students under the theme “Different flowers, same garden — everybody belongs,” which was the theme of this year’s prom.
You can watch a video highlight of the Best Buddies Prom, here!
Written by: Kennedy Freeman
Photos by: Parker Walpole, myFM Co-op Reporter
