Westside High School hosted its annual prom in April, bringing students together for a night of celebration, dancing and recognition.

This year’s event featured a Las Vegas theme, complete with roulette tables and poker-style activities, before culminating in the crowning of prom king and queen.

Senior Lucy Pocras was named prom queen and said the moment came as a surprise.

“When my name was announced, I was so shocked,” Pocras said. “I looked out and saw all my friends cheering, which made it awesome. I didn’t expect it at all.”

Senior Ozzy Hawk, who was crowned prom king, said he initially didn’t realize his name had been called.

“At first I didn’t even hear it because the room was so loud,” Hawk said. “Then they started putting the crown and sash on me, and I was like, that’s kind of cool. I wasn’t expecting it.”

Prom royalty was determined through a vote by upperclassmen, allowing students to recognize their peers.

Pocras said the support from classmates made the honor meaningful.

“It’s really awesome knowing my friends and even people I don’t know that well voted for me,” she said. “It just shows how great everyone at Westside has been.”

Hawk said the recognition reflected the connections he built during his time at the school.

“It means I made a good amount of friends,” he said. “People liked me enough to vote me prom king.”

As seniors prepare to graduate, both Pocras and Hawk reflected on their favorite high school experiences.

Hawk said one highlight was a sociology class trip.

“I would probably have to say the sociology trip to the prison,” he said.

Pocras said her involvement in athletics created lasting memories.

“Throughout all my years at Westside, the sports I’ve been involved in and my teammates have been so much fun,” she said. “Between basketball and soccer, I’ve made a lot of great friends.”

The event marked one of the final milestones for seniors as they close out their high school experience at Westside.