I’m still trying to find the right words to describe what I felt when I got the video of my son, Alden, being crowned as Prom King at White House High School. The entire room erupted in cheers, and in that moment, so did my heart.  Watching the video of him skipping towards the stage in excitement, it was pure joy for this Mama’s heart.  For a moment, it wasn’t about the challenges, the frustrations, the long nights of worry, or the labels the world tried to give him. It was about him—his smile, his courage, and the joy that radiated from every part of him.

Alden Jones, my son, my loving, cheerful, autistic boy, stood tall in front of his peers, wearing a crown that symbolized far more than a school tradition. It was a symbol of acceptance, love, and a community that saw beyond labels. As I watched him smile, the kind of smile that lights up his whole face, I thought back to the early days—the questions, the uncertainty, the fear.

I remember when Alden was first diagnosed with autism. People talked about limitations, delays, and social struggles. There were so many predictions about what he might not do. I cried often in those early days, not because I was disappointed, but because I was scared the world wouldn’t understand him or give him the space he needed to shine.

But Alden has never stopped surprising me.

He’s grown into a compassionate, funny, intelligent young man with the biggest heart. He notices when others are left out. He loves deeply and purely. He sees the world differently, and that difference is a gift. Over the years, he’s faced challenges with more strength than I ever could have imagined. He’s taught me patience, perspective, and the beauty of small victories.

Still, as a mom, you always carry that quiet worry in your heart. Will people be kind to him? Will they see the incredible person behind the diagnosis? Will they invite him in?

And tonight, those questions were answered in the most beautiful way.

His classmates saw Alden. Really saw him. They saw his kindness, his spirit, and his sincerity. And they chose him, not out of pity, but out of a genuine acceptance as a friend and fellow peer. That’s what makes this moment so powerful. It’s not just about Alden being Prom King. It’s about what that crown represents: inclusion, friendship, and the power of a community that chooses love.  You showed the world that kindness still wins, and that inclusion is more than a buzzword—it’s love in action.

To the students at White House High School: thank you. From the bottom of a mother’s heart, thank you. You didn’t just give my son a magical night—you gave me a memory I’ll hold onto forever. You’ve reminded me that this generation is filled with empathy and hope, and you’ve set a beautiful example of what true acceptance looks like.  

We are endlessly grateful to the amazing faculty and staff at White House High School for the unwavering love and support they show our son, Alden. Your kindness, patience, and dedication have helped him thrive in ways we never imagined. Thank you for seeing his heart and celebrating who he truly is.

To other parents on this journey—those walking the path of autism with their child—hold on to hope. Our kids may walk a different road, but that road is paved with potential, strength, and moments like this. Moments where the world not only makes space for them but celebrates them.

Tonight, Alden is wearing a crown. But the real gift is knowing he’s surrounded by a school community that values him for exactly who he is. And for that, I will be forever grateful.

With love and pride, Alden’s Mom