The Rhythm of Joy Prom will be held at Swofford Career Center on March 28 from 5-7 p.m.

The event is a joint effort between Chapman and Landrum to provide a night of fun for students in District One with special needs. 

Superintendent Mark Smith said the idea originated from his time in District Six. 

“We had a similar event for our special needs population, and they called it the Razzle Dazzle Ball,” he said. “I thought it was an amazing idea, but I wanted us to come up with our name.”

The name came from the family of Avery West, a Chapman student who died in September. Not only was her middle name Joy, but she was known for sharing joy with everyone she encountered.

Freshman Jianna West, Avery West’s sister, said she appreciates both how the dance was named and the dance in general.

“I think that it is a really sweet idea and a great way for people attending to have a place where they can go and feel comfortable and just an overall good time,” she said.

Chapman and Landrum student councils are decorating, Swofford culinary students are preparing food and cosmetology students will make sure everyone looks and feels their best. 

The Cliffs at Glassy Outreach provided $5,000, and Thomas & Sons Tuxedos is providing a generous discount on all suits. 

The result of this collaborative effort?

No student will have to pay to attend.

Student Council adviser Brittney Feagan said she thinks this prom will be a special night.

“I feel like it just gives them a day,” she said. “We have Senior Night for gen-ed kids, and we have all of these things — prom night, homecoming dance and things like that — but we don’t have anything special for the special ed department. I think this is one of those things that can be special for them.”