On Apr. 26, HSE and Fishers High School hosted a combined Best Buddies Prom at Heartland Church. Best Buddies Prom is one of several events organized each year to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for students of all abilities. Both peers and students look forward to the prom, as it is one of the organization’s largest and most meaningful events. This year marks the first time HSE and Fishers have joined together to host a combined prom, making it an even bigger and more impactful. HSE sophomores Sebastian Brown and Kendall Raderstorf, along with junior Kate Hopper and senior Cameron Matyanowski, share their perspectives on the importance and impact of Best Buddies Prom.

One of the biggest draws of the night was the energy on the dance floor, where students came together to celebrate without separation or pressure.

“I’m looking forward to the dance parties that we are going to have,” Brown said, “as well as seeing the dance moves people bring.”

The atmosphere is what makes the event stand out year after year, especially because of how it brings the whole school community together.

“It’s just one of those events that everyone looks forward to,” Brown said, “and when everyone is there, it makes others moods better.”

For many students, the prom is just as much about connection as it is about dancing, giving them a chance to spend time with friends in a supportive environment.

“I’m looking forward to seeing all my friends,” Hopper said, “and being in such a welcoming and joyful environment.”

Many students also said the event stood out because it allowed them to connect with people they might not normally interact with during the school day.

“I am most excited for the dancing and hanging out with everyone,” Matyanowski said, “and this year, since it is combined with Fishers, I am excited to meet new people.”

Bringing both schools together was a decision that made the event even more meaningful by expanding inclusion and shared experiences.

“This provides an inclusive environment to experience a school dance,” Matyanowski said, “that some wouldn’t be able to experience otherwise.”

That sense of inclusion was something many students said defined the entire prom.

“These events are so impactful for our students,” Hopper said, “because each and every one of them feels included and a sense of belonging.”

Beyond prom itself, students said Best Buddies has shaped how they interact with others in everyday school life.

“It has made me want to go up to the students,” Brown said, “and try my best to make their day a little better.”

Others said the program changed the way they view people and relationships.

“Best Buddies has altered my perspective on how I see others,” Hopper said, “enabling me to see the unique gifts and strengths that every individual has.”

For others, the biggest lesson has been understanding the importance of every voice in the community.

“Best Buddies has changed me as a person,” Matyanowski said, “by knowing that everyone’s voice matters.”

The program has also helped change how people perceive others.

“It’s taught me to be more understanding, patient, and accepting,” Raderstorf said, “and to see people beyond labels or stereotypes.”

Overall, students said Best Buddies has helped create a stronger, more connected school culture.

“It’s just so welcoming to anyone and everyone,” Brown said, “and it creates a culture that spreads throughout the school.”

That impact extends beyond just the events and into everyday connection between students throughout our schools.

“I believe programs like this impact our school culture immensely,” Hopper said, “allowing students to build friendships and feel valued.”

Even in small moments, students said the effects of the program are visible throughout the school.

“It creates a more inclusive and positive environment,” Raderstorf said, “where people feel more connected and supported.”

For many participants, Best Buddies began through friends or school involvement but quickly became something more meaningful.

“Now, as Co-President” Matyanowski said,” I can confidently say it has been the best thing that has ever happened to me”.

Overall, students share how Best Buddies Prom is more than just a school dance, but it is an experience built on inclusion, friendship, and connection. With HSE and Fishers coming together this year, the event grew into an even stronger celebration of community that continues to leave a lasting impact on students.