There were six girls and six boys nominated this year by teachers for prom candidacy. They are seniors Hannah Norris, Katelyn Fross, Joslyn Dinkel, Rachel Taylor, Jeanie Balzer, Breanna Park, Jacob Alexander, Xander Swayne, Zachary Hopp, Brent Koenigsman, Conrad Vajnar, and Bryce Davidson.

“I’m very honored to have been selected as one of the prom candidates by the staff at Hays High,” Alexander said. “I think that it means I’ve made a good impact on the staff throughout my years here.”

All candidates reiterated Alexander’s enthusiasm and gratefulness on being nominated and recognized for their work they’ve put into their high school careers.

“I feel like I deserved the nomination because I’ve worked really hard for my good grades and I always try to be the best person I can be for people,” Dinkel said. “I wasn’t super shocked when it was announced just because some people told me they thought I was going to get nominated.”

Multiple other candidates were a little surprised when the announcement was made.

“I was shocked when I heard my name,” Swayne said. “There are so many deserving people and there are many other people that could’ve been chosen. I feel lucky that I was chosen.”

The crowning ceremony takes place April 8, during prom.

“While there is not much to being a prom candidate, but my favorite part has been pictures and spending time with all of the other candidates,” Alexander said. “I think the take away from this experience is to always be your best person. Even if you feel as if you’re OK to do and say whatever you feel, you should be cautious because you’re being observed always.”

View prom candidate photos here.

17mcrees@usd489.com