Alternate “Footloose Prom” planned for May 11

Area high school students who were unable to attend their school’s prom have a second chance to make that memory on May 11.

Suzanne Eaton, whose daughter, Mariah, is precluded from attending her prom at Lynn Camp High School, is hosting the “Footloose Prom” at the Corbin Civic Center.

Eaton said her daughter is an exceptional student and member of the business club. However, Mariah has more than the six allotted unexcused absences, meaning she is not permitted to attend the prom.

Eaton said at least two of the unexcused absences are her fault because she failed to provide her daughter with the excuses.

Despite her daughter’s academic record, and letters of support from her pastor, and several teachers, Eaton said school officials stuck to the board policy.

“I just think it is bad policy,” Eaton said. “At the very least, make it the principal’s discretion. He knows his kids.”

“We already had the prom dress when she found out she wouldn’t be able to attend,” Eaton said. “I told her, ‘We’ll just have our own prom.’”

Eaton said she began planning the event at the civic center with the Lynn Camp students in mind.

“We started hearing from kids from Knox Central and Laurel County who were not able to attend prom,” Eaton said noting that home-schooled children are among those effected.

With that in mind, Eaton elected to open the Footloose Prom up to students across the tri-county area that, for one reason or another, are unable to attend their school prom.

“We have about 105 kids who are going to attend,” Eaton said.

Eaton said she has had individuals, businesses and organizations volunteer their time and talent to make the event a success.

Prom dresses have been donated for what can prove to be the most expensive part of the event, the dress.

“We have several people offering to do the girls’ hair and makeup.

As for the guys, Eaton said while tuxedoes are welcome, dress pants and a button-up shirt are acceptable.

Eaton said several area DJ’s and photographers have offered their services as well.

“The only thing we are lacking right now is decorations.

Since the theme is based on the 1984 cult classic movie, “Footloose,” Eaton said she would like to keep the decorations similar to how the students in the movie decorated the barn.

“We would like to have strings of Christmas lights and balloons,” Eaton said.

Anyone that may have decorations they are willing to loan or give to the cause may drop them off at Poplar Grove Baptist Church on North Ky. 830 in Corbin.

While admission is free, Eaton said she has ground rules in place to ensure the event is a success. It is scheduled for 7-11 p.m.

No drugs, alcohol or tobacco will be permitted. The civic center is a smoke free facility.

Those who need assistance with attire may contact Eaton by private message at the Footloose Prom 2019 Facebook page.

No fighting. Security will be provided to make sure the event is fun and safe.

We want this to be a positive experience for all,” Eaton said.

Those who plan to attend are asked to RSVP via the Facebook page in order for organizers to have a head count for food and souvenirs.

“All these children deserve this special night,” Eaton said.