I stood onstage, everyone clapping and smiling at me for being voted for prom royalty. I felt joyful about being recognized by my peers.

In 2016, it was an administrative choice to do away with prom royalty. The administration said it was causing insecurity and was a popularity contest.

Before, students were nominated by other students. Now, students will be asked if they would like to participate. A list will be e-mailed to Millard staff of the willing participants.

From there, teachers will pick their top junior or senior with the best “Mustang mindset” and always being ready, responsible, and respectable.

A pep rally will be held the week before prom, and students will vote for the chosen nominees.

“I think there is something special about being recognized by your teachers and peers for being an outstanding student. That doesn’t mean it’s about grades. It’s really about character and how people treat people. It feels good to be nominated by people because you are being seen, and you are being seen for the right reasons. I wanted to get away from a popularity contest. It’s not about that, it’s about kids with great hearts and a super Mustang mindset.” JCB sponsor Amy Roberts said.

One benefit of bringing back prom court and royalty is people will stay longer for prom and homecoming.

“As a prom sponsor, I want to see all the kids there and enjoying themselves through the entirety of the night and also alleviate a little concern if they are there and then go straight to after prom then we know they are going to be safe and accounted for and that’s a major plus for me,” Roberts said.

MN is working on a way to make prom and homecoming a fun time for students.