150 from tri-county area attend 15th Special Needs Prom

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Bianca Severino and Mark Saraceno check out their reflections in a mirror at Antone’s Banquet Center in Boardman during a Special Needs Prom. About 150 attended the dance Thursday night.

BOARDMAN

Parents snapped pictures and marvelled at an array of attire outside Antone’s.

But shortly after 5 p.m., Mom and Dad had to go.

“It’s so the kids can be in their own element,” said Joy Nola, an intervention specialist with Southern Local schools.

About 150 students from schools in the tri-county area attended Thursday’s 15th annual Special Needs Prom.

This year’s theme was “Let the Good Times Roll” and featured oversized dice and playing cards in a Las Vegas backdrop.

It was junior James Davis’ first trip to Nevada.

“They have a great time,” said Alicia Muzina, an intervention specialist with Canfield schools. “They’re so excited about it.”

Canfield has organized the event for the past 15 years and receives donations from several local businesses as well as a discount from Antone’s.

“All the teachers and aides say this prom is more fun than regular prom,” said Stefania Bauman, another Canfield intervention specialist.

Read more about this special event in today's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.