Racine, Ohio: “It takes a village…” — and Prom proves it
“It takes a village…” is something we say often, but few events bring that phrase to life quite like Prom.
On Saturday, April 18, Southern High School proudly hosted its 2026 Prom, officially kicking off Meigs County’s prom season. Under the leadership of new Prom Advisor Mrs. Courtney Leachman, expectations were not only met—they were exceeded. Following a long tradition of outstanding advisors, Mrs. Leachman kept the bar high and delivered a memorable evening for all.
The walk-in took place from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., and even the weather cooperated—clearing just in time for students to make their grand entrance. Thanks to the efforts of our valet team (Brian Allen, Zane Beegle, Josh Booth, Daniel Buckley, Jason Circle, Chris Stout, Bryan Swann, Matt Thomas, and Ray Willford), students arrived with ease and style.
As they entered, students were announced by Southern Local Board President Ashley Peterman, adding a special touch to the evening. Alongside the many proud family photographers capturing the moment, students also had the opportunity to participate in a professional photo session with Codi Thomas. https://lightroom.adobe.com/shares/861f0133978a4ea2800a362d866dfaaa
Once inside, juniors and seniors cast their votes for the 2026 Prom King and Queen under the supervision of Mrs. Courtney Manuel and Miss Amanda Rinaldi. Students then made their way into the dance for this year’s theme: “The Golden Gala.” With chaperones Mrs. Beth Bay, Miss Isabel Burns, Ms. Andrea Edwards, Mr. Bill Whitlock, and Mr. and Mrs. Cassidy and Rebecca Willford keeping a watchful eye, students enjoyed a night full of energy, laughter, and dancing.
At approximately 10:00 p.m., special awards were announced:
Best Car: Keely Sellers and Grayson Duvall
Best Dress: Zayda Shockey
Best Hair: Kianna Rose
Cutest Couple: Jaylynn Hupp and Jake Wickline
Best Suit: Hunter Jarrell
Best Bromance: Wyatt Smith and Hunter Jarrell
Best Dancer: Murphy Dunfee
Life of the Party: Andre Chandler
Best Shoes: Molly Haye
Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for—the crowning of the 2026 Prom King and Queen. The announcement was made, the crowd celebrated, and the 2025 Queen, Miss Ava Circle, passed the crown to King Jake Wickline and Queen Jaylynn Hupp.
Mrs. Leachman extends her sincere thanks to the many individuals and organizations who contributed to making the evening a success, including but not limited to: Bedrock Rentals, AROC Entertainment, Beautiful Chaos Photography, Raymond Johnson Photography, Darrell Norris and Son Greenhouses, Jennifer Hoback, Mary Ann Leachman, Jamie and Jon Smith, Angie Nelson and Josh Smith, Tara and Brian Hupp, Stacey Sands, Amy Roush, Lori Sharp, Jayme and Dean Hill, Evergreen Florist, Pink House and Co., Rocky Hupp, Ashli Davis, Stephanie Allen, SRO Greg Priddy and the Meigs County Sheriff’s Office, Dana Kemppel, Amy Roush, Scott Hill, Paula Fisher, Christi Hendrix, Jen Shortridge, Carmen Adkins, Hill’s (Regina and Slim)Terri Law, Lindsay Thomas, Todd Dunfee, Jeff Beaver, Ryan Chapman, Linda Diddle, Alisa Caldwell, Josie Russell, Rachel and Joe Cornell, Baum Lumber, Racine Hardware, Momall Mick and Poppy Dave, The Blakeslee Center, Southern staff, Junior and Senior parents, Juniors and Seniors, and Volunteer of the Year, Rece Johnson! If she missed anyone, blame the author of this post.
Southern administration would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mrs. Leachman for stepping into a role many were hesitant to take on—and absolutely knocking it out of the park. Events like this are only possible because of the dedication, time, and care of so many.
Thank you to everyone who helped make Prom 2026 a night to remember.