Every year the Fluvanna Student Government Association (SGA) hosts an “Our Hoco” Homecoming dance during school for kids in the special education class to give them the opportunity to experience a school dance. This year’s dance, held on Sept. 26 during fourth block in the Annex gym, was the result of a collaboration from multiple departments.
For example, the Cosmetology class helped students get ready for the dance by doing their hair, makeup and nails. “The students came in and were really excited to have us do their hair and makeup. We gave them new, glamorous looks for the dance. We love being able to make them happy and it warms our hearts to do it for them,” said Cosmetology teacher Lisa Adams.
Just as with the school-wide Homecoming dance which will be held Oct. 19, the “Our Hoco” dance included crowning a Homecoming king and queen. This year’s queen was senior Jasmine Brewster, while the king was sophomore Desmond Thomson. Special Education teacher Nick Ward chose the king and queen based on their work ethic and behavior in class, their ages, and whether or not they have won the honor before.
“I am very happy that I won Homecoming king, I was not expecting to win. I had a lot of fun at the dance, and I love dancing. That was my favorite part,” said Thomson.
As usual, the dance was coordinated by SGA students, who also dressed up to attend and oversee the event.
“SGA does ‘Our Home’ so that everyone, regardless of someone’s disability, is able to have a homecoming dance like the rest of us. ‘Our Hoco’ is important to me because it warms my heart to see everyone be able to have fun with the rest of us, without feeling any judgment,” said senior and SGA member Juan Cazares.
Ward, who has overseen many “Our Hoco” dances, said “Our Hoco is always great every year. The kids have so much fun and I really appreciate everyone that helps out with the dance. Cosmetology helps the girls get ready and we will take the boys to get shirts for the dance if needed. It was a blast for all of the students and I love to see them having so much fun.”
