Cobb Reporter

March 19, 2025—Aiden, a student from McEachern High School, was among the many students who enjoyed the annual dance event at Kennesaw Mountain High School. The event is designed for students with special needs and has been hosted by Kennesaw Mountain for over two decades. This year’s theme was the Minion Mash: A Gru-vy Dance.

Kennesaw Mountain sophomore Michelle noted the impact of the event on its special guests: “It feels like a light is shining on them when they come to the dance. It feels like all the energy is on them.”

The preparation for this event involved significant volunteer effort from Kennesaw Mountain seniors such as Tristin and Isabella. "We put in almost four to five hours every day after school, working on decorations, fashion, logistics, and coordinating everything," Isabella stated.

Tristin explained their dedication to ensuring perfection: “We really light a fire under [us] to make sure it's perfect for all these kids.”

Planning began months in advance according to Isabella. "We started planning all the way back in August," she said. This extensive preparation process involved daily after-school sessions called 'build' where student council members would construct decorations and plan logistics.

Michelle expressed surprise at the scale of commitment required for organizing such an event: "I was shocked at just the sheer size and commitment that we always put into this event."

Volunteers also took part in dressing up in Minion-inspired costumes to welcome their guests and join them on the dance floor. For many volunteers like Tristin, The Dance highlights community spirit: "I really love the sense of community we have at our school."

Sophomore Adriana emphasized teamwork: "I think it really shows our community here at Cobb County...being able to provide an event like this for the kids."

As another successful dance concluded, both participants and volunteers cherished memories made during this celebrated annual tradition.