Disabled students named Jackson Homecoming king, queen

Southeast Missourian

Hunter Ross and Laina Wohrle proved just because someone might be different doesn’t mean they can’t have a rich high-school experience. Both students have disabilities, but they have become a part of the student body so successfully, the pair Friday were crowned Jackson High School Homecoming king and queen. Hunter’s Mother Sandy says he isn’t very verbal but he makes up for it with vim and character. A sports fan, Hunter also competes in the Special Olympics. He’s a track and field guy, running the 50-meter dash, doing the softball throw and the standing long jump. He also helps keep things running smoothly on the sidelines at football games. Laina’s mother, Melinda Wohrle says it is amazing, the way that the school treats Hunter and Laina. Laina stays active by volunteering at church, participating in a special-needs cheerleading group and, like any other teen, keeping up with her favorite TV shows. And now that she holds the coveted crown, what’s the best part about being Homecoming Queen? Laina says “Holding the flowers.”