The two most popular students at Jefferson Forest High School in Virginia right now are Anna Anderson and Zane Wales.
They were named this year’s prom king and queen.
Their coronation proves that having an extra chromosome doesn’t mean a thing to their classmates. Jefferson Forest High School just wanted them to know they are loved, valued, and cool as heck!
“They see these kids every day. They walk the same halls with these same kids, and they just feel like they’re part of them, so they wanted to make sure that they also really felt part of them,” teacher Heather Hevener told ABC 13 News.
Anderson and Wales, who both happen to have Down syndrome, were completely caught by surprise by their nomination.
Their nomination was entirely their classmates’ idea.
“Probably in February or March, I had a few students like, ‘You know what? This year, Zane Wales for prom king — let’s do it!'” Hevener said.
“So, they started the campaign on their own, and then, when we asked for nominations, Zane’s name came through.”
The whole community ended up jumping in to make sure Anderson and Wales had a special prom evening.
Local company Emerald Limousine offer them a limo for the night and Celebration Bridal donated their attire.
During their coronation ceremony, Anderson and Wales’ classmates jumped up and down and cheered their names.
Anderson said that the best part of her evening was getting to dance. Wales said that, for him, it was getting to wear his crown.
Their story was covered by their local news station and ended up going viral when People picked up the story.
It ended up warming the hearts of many readers online.
“Love these kids it’s so awesome to see the love that the whole school give we need this more showing love and care,” said one commenter on Facebook.
“Kisses and hugs to you on your special day. Love and hugs to yourself. Stay safe out there and enjoy every minute of it!” said another.
Anderson and Wales seemed to be really touched by their nomination.
And extremely happy to get to be the center of attention for the evening. After all, who wouldn’t want to be queen and king?
“We did that in my town. Two of my students were chosen. I can’t tell you how cool they were. Awesome,” wrote one commenter on People’s Facebook page.
“Beautiful kids. Lovely gesture. And please make sure they’re both invited to all your grad parties, that you text them, you hang out with them on the weekends and over the summer, and keep in touch after high school. Signed- a mom of a child with a disability,” said another.
Check out Anderson and Wales’ adorable coronation in the video below!
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.
Senior Zane Wales and junior Anna Anderson are enjoying their new titles of the school thanks to their classmates! The full story is below and on @ABC13News https://t.co/CbOH09tjEI https://t.co/ahptlIAaC3 pic.twitter.com/PIhHfX1OWy
— Madison Doner (@MadisonDoner) April 29, 2022
