High schooler with Down syndrome crowned prom queen after viral ‘prom-posal’ from football player

MANDAN, N.D. (KFYR/Gray News) – A high school student whose “prom-posal” caught national attention last week was crowned prom queen.

Alayna Tetzloff, a high school senior who has Down syndrome, was crowned prom queen on Saturday at Mandan High School in North Dakota.

Her big win comes on the heels of her date’s sweet “prom-posal.”

John Bugbee and Alayna Tetzloff attended prom together at Mandan High School in North Dakota.(Jaci Hall via KFYR)

John Bugbee is a 6′8′' football star and is known as the “big friendly giant.” He surprised Tetzloff during weights class when he asked her to be his prom date with a sweet sign and a Crumbl cookie.

“She always picks up your day,” Bugbee said.

Tetzloff said, with a smile, that she was excited when he asked.

Grant Risser and Alayna Tetzloff were crowned prom king and queen Saturday night.(Jaci Hall)

This was their second formal dance together. The pair went to a dance together earlier this winter.

Although Bugbee did not win prom king, Tetzloff will never forget her crowning moment.

Bugbee said he’s not really doing anything special. He’s just looking forward to spending an evening with a good friend and sharing some laughs, but said he also hopes to inspire acceptance, inclusiveness, and friendship.