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Teen with Down syndrome cries after being named Homecoming Queen
Featured Image Credit: YouTube/FOX8 WGHP

Teen with Down syndrome cries after being named Homecoming Queen

Emma Wright couldn't believe it when her name was read out.

A teenager has been shocked after being announced as her school's homecoming queen.

Emma Wright couldn't hide her surprise and joy after the results came back from the student body at The East Forsyth High School.

She was one of nearly a dozen girls who were in the running for the coveted award.

The candidates gathered on the school's football pitch and waited for the big moment.

Footage has been released showing the moment the 18-year-old's name gets read out at the ceremony in Kernersville, North Carolina.

She immediately put her hands to her face and let the tears flow.

"So amazing," she said. "I started crying as soon as they read out my name."

Her dad was accompanying her at the event and he admitted to WXII12 that he couldn't hold back the tears as well.

"We had no idea, it's something that you prepare for," he told the local outlet.

"Just getting dressed, getting all the things done and we are so thankful to be a part of East Forsyth family and so excited for Emma and the opportunity they gave her tonight."

The 18-year-old is beloved at East Forsyth High School and principal Rusty Hall says it was amazing that the student body rallied behind her.

"We call her our dancer. You can see her dancing in the cafeteria, and the hallways, she's loved by the entire student body," Principal Hall explained to Fox 8.

"It's what we try to push here. Everybody is included, everybody's voice matters regardless of your background, your life before you got here.

"Once you're here you're family. And we appreciate the contributions of all of our students and tonight was a perfect example."

He said it was made even more incredible that this all happened in October, which is Down Syndrome Awareness Month.

The high school cheerleader has her eyes set on attending Western Carolina University in Cullowhee next year.

After that, the Daily Mail says she wants to open her open her own bakery and ice cream shop.

Topics: US News