More Than a Dance: The Friendships That Made CPA Prom Unforgettable

At Colorado Preparatory Academy (CPA), prom isn’t about being crowned king or queen. It’s about finally meeting the people who made school feel like home.

CPA is an online school that lets students learn from anywhere, but it also helps them connect with others. Jeraily Mazariego Nava, a 9th-grade student from Aurora, said that just being herself and showing up helped her make lasting friendships at CPA.

“I have made tons of friends in online school, but I have a close group of five. I made these friends by being my social self in class connects, going to blended events, and joining help sessions just to chat.”

On prom night, those online friendships became even more special as students finally met in person and made lasting memories together.

“Prom is a time where I get to see many of my online school friends—a night where I can forget about school and focus on having fun.”

For many CPA students, prom is one of the rare times when everyone can gather together. Drake McQueen, a 12th-grade student from Penrose, called it a truly unifying experience. 

“Prom really is the big night where a lot of people I know can go. Everything else isn’t big enough or is too far to arrange.”  

By getting involved, speaking up in class, joining clubs, and taking part in school events, students like Drake made friendships that went beyond the virtual classroom and into real life. 

The CPA prom was memorable not just for the music or decorations, but because it gave students something truly special: time together to celebrate the friendships that shaped their school experience.