KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Olathe East High School senior Rileigh Hesse knew who she wanted to ask to this weekend’s Homecoming dance, but she was still nervous.
With help from her fellow students volunteering in her classroom, she made a sign and mustered up the courage to pop the question Monday during class.
After unveiling the giant sign, Jack McCaskill went from stunned to a little emotional, pinching his fingers into his eyes to stop any tears. Then, he jolted out of his chair, spread his arms and firmly said his answer.
“Yes,” Jack said to her question. Rileigh walked toward him and the two hugged.
The proposal didn’t leave many dry eyes in the classroom, where teachers and peer mentors dedicate their days to students with special needs.
Not only does Rileigh now have a date for Saturday’s homecoming dance, she’s also nominated for Homecoming Queen. She’ll be on the football field Friday night as the Homecoming Queen is announced.
Rileigh’s mom, Kellie Downey, said she couldn’t have dreamed of such an amazing experience for her daughter. She said she is thankful for the teachers and students at East who are so accepting and make everyone feel included.
Jack’s dad, Mark McCaskill, first saw the video on his phone while shopping at an area Target and started to cry in the aisle.
It is a very special week at Olathe East, to say the least.
