Ted and Ruth Eyre did what any parents would do. When their daughter, Shellie, became a finalist for Murray High School homecoming queen, they counseled her to be a good sport in case she didn't win. They explained only one girl among the ten would be selected queen.

As Ted Eyre escorted his daughter onto the gym floor as the candidates were introduced, the gym erupted into deafening cheers and applause. They were greeted with a standing ovation. Shellie was about to experience the ultimate inclusion. The 17-year-old senior, born with Down syndrome, was selected by fellow students as homecoming queen.

When the ovations had ceased, the school principal said, "Tonight the students voted on inner beauty". Obviously moved, students, parents, and school administrators wept openly. One student commented, "I'm so happy. I cried when they came out. I think Murray High is so awesome to do this."