The staff at Emerson Academy wanted to make sure this year’s prom was special for the juniors and seniors attending Saturday night. The alternative high school helped secure formal outfits for the students and partnered with Kim’s Diner, which provided a full meal for everyone for free.
Rocky White, Director of Alternative Education Programs for Owensboro Public Schools, said oftentimes the students at Emerson aren’t able to enjoy the full traditional prom experience that many other high schoolers get, for various reasons.
“A lot of our kids are from low socioeconomic status families,” he said. “They can’t afford traditional prom. We did our best to outfit the students that wanted to attend, our qualifying juniors and seniors in good standing.”
In addition to helping with formal clothes, White said the staff wanted to find a way to offer a meal for the students.
Leah Emory, Emerson’s guidance counselor, reached out to Kim Roberson, who owns Kim’s Diner (1206 East 18th Street).
“Leah had reached out to me and asked me if I could cater, that the kids were less fortunate than a lot of other kids,” Roberson said. “When prom season comes, a lot of kids go out to eat with their friends. She said that a lot of them at Emerson wouldn’t be able to, so in order to make it fair so nobody felt like they were left out, they wanted to order a meal for them. I just decided that I’d donate it.”
Roberson served fried chicken, mashed potatoes, macaroni, green beans, rolls, and dessert.
As a product of an alternative school herself, Roberson was happy to help.
“I had two kids when I was younger, so I needed to go somewhere where I could graduate quicker. I went to Seven Hills,” she said. “I remember when I graduated, they gave us a cap and gown and we took a picture in front of the school, but we had to get the cap and gown back. We didn’t get to keep it. I like how they make it a lot better now. Even though these kids had a little harder path, staying in school or being in trouble, I’m glad that they give them a prom and graduation and all that good stuff.”
White said the students were shocked when they found out they’d get a free meal, and they didn’t take it for granted.
“We have changed the climate somewhat here at Emerson,” he said. “A lot of our kids are becoming more civic minded and getting out of the community a little more. They realize that it takes a lot of hard work to run a business and they appreciate it when somebody from the community or a business owner helps them.”
Part of that change in culture has also resulted in more partnerships with individuals and businesses in the community. White is hopeful that trends continues.
“I just think it’s very encouraging some of relationships that have been been established by Emerson Academy with local business and their willingness to support children that are at-risk or struggle financially,” he said. “I hope this is something that continues in the future with people taking an interest in the kids who are struggling.”
