Tiny ties, tiaras: Itty Bitty Prom at Davenport High

DAVENPORT — Tiny dancers will soon twirl under the lights at the fourth annual Itty Bitty Prom, transforming Davenport High School’s auditorium into a magical evening for the community’s youngest residents.

Hosted by Growing Gorillas, a nonprofit cooperative preschool, the event welcomes Davenport School District students from preschool through fifth grade, accompanied by parents, guardians or loved ones. It runs from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21.

Tickets are available at the door via cash or Venmo, with children 2 and under admitted free. Attendees can walk a red carpet in ties and tiaras, enjoy popcorn and treats, and pose for photos by local photographer LindseyKay Photography of the Reardan area.

“This is our fourth year that Growing Gorillas is putting this event on,” said Sami Guhlke, executive board president. “Itty Bitty Prom is exactly what it sounds like — a prom for the littles.”

Guhlke emphasized inclusivity: “We didn’t want to call it a father-daughter dance. It’s really whatever parent or guardian wants to accompany the student. We’ve had grandparents, aunts and uncles come — whoever is important in the student’s life.”

A new Golden Ticket Raffle adds excitement, with five winners drawn during the night for surprise prizes. Entry is included with student tickets; winners must be present.

Past events drew 100 to 150 attendees, though one year saw lower turnout due to illness. All proceeds support the preschool, helping keep tuition low and cover expenses.

“Every penny from each ticket goes to the preschoolers,” Guhlke said.