Ah, the good old days of high school. For most teens, even the popular ones, this is a tough time in life. They’re learning who they are as a person and doing their best to become more independent.
Although challenging at times, high school is also an amazing experience. It offers students a broad range of opportunities, which helps shape them into productive adults. Perhaps one of the most exciting times in high school is Homecoming, a longstanding tradition that’s worth celebrating.
How did Homecoming get its start?
While somewhat debatable, historians agree that this particular tradition is rooted in alumni football games. It started back in the 19th century and has continued today. We now see Homecomings celebrated at both high schools and colleges.
Traditional characteristics
Although Homecoming involves watching football, there’s a lot more to it. Often, schools hold a parade a day or two beforehand. Then, there’s the big dance and of course, the crowning of the King and Queen.
A real honor
Students nominate seniors they feel represent the school the best to be Homecoming king and queen. Typically, these individuals have excelled in one or more areas and are considered natural-born-leaders. So, being given this title is a real honor.
A standup guy
In Douglas County, no one was surprised when 17-year-old senior Brad Cooley was named Homecoming King of the high school. After all, he was a standup guy who everyone liked. Brad wasn’t just a good student and friend but he had a big passion for life and people in general.
The big event
After months of anticipation, it was finally time to attend the big Homecoming event. Before getting into the details, you need to know about a young lady named Megan Bailey, also a senior. Born with a form of cerebral palsy, she can’t speak but her smile is infectious.
Her date
For Homecoming, Megan went with a boy named Ian Brennen. This young man has Down syndrome. The two had been friends since the age of five and decided to attend the dance together.
An amazing guy
Ian is well-known and well-liked by everyone at the high school. He’s not only super sweet but also funny. Come to find out, this was the first date for both him and Megan. So, you can only imagine how nervous and excited they were.
Crowning the King and Queen
At that Friday’s Homecoming football game, Megan was crowned the Queen while Bradley was named the King. But that’s not quite how things turned out. You see, Bradley stated that wearing the crown just “didn’t feel right” to him, something was off.
Following his heart
For the Homecoming dance the following evening, Bradley wanted to give his crown to someone he felt was more deserving … Ian. After locating him, that’s when the switch was made. Being completely selfless, he handed over the crown.
The perfect King and Queen
As before, not many people were surprised by Bradley’s kind gesture. That’s just the kind of guy he is. And for Ian to wear the King’s crown and Megan the Queen’s crown, it was a date that neither will ever forget.
To learn more about this amazing young man and the story leading up to Homecoming, check out the video below.
It serves as a good reminder that kindness goes a long way. This is one of those feel-good stories you don’t want to miss.
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.
