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Teen fights homecoming prank and wins fairytale ending

Whitney Kropp walked out as royalty at her homecoming ceremony last Friday.

Published October 9, 2012

After a Facebook page was launched to spread anti-bullying awareness in Kropp’s name, nearly 40,000 “likes” had local businesses pledging their services—one salon owner offered the teen a full hairstyling—to transform Kropp’s pumpkin into a sparkling carriage. (Photo credit: John M. Galloway/Detroit News/AP)

By ALEXANDRA WEE, Staff Writer

Whitney Kropp was thrilled to hear she had been nominated to homecoming court until she found out it was just a hoax. Then she turned the joke on her bullies.

The 16-year old at Ogemaw Heights High School of West Branch said at first, she felt humiliated and betrayed after learning the truth two weeks ago.

“I had actually thought about suicide because I thought I wasn’t worthy,” Kropp told Detroit WXYZ. But with her mom at her side and the support of her community, the high-schooler turned this real-life-Carrie prank into a happily ever after.

After a Facebook page was launched to spread anti-bullying awareness in Kropp’s name, nearly 40,000 “likes” had local businesses pledging their services—one salon owner offered the teen a full hairstyling—to transform Kropp’s pumpkin into a sparkling carriage.

“I had thoughts about not coming but I’m glad I changed my mind and actually came out,” Kropp told NBC news. “The kids that are bullying you do not let them bring you down. Stand up for what you believe in and go with your heart and your gut.”

The teen walked out as royalty at her homecoming ceremony last Friday with flowers in one hand and her escort on the other. She also attended the dance with her ruffled red dress, shoes, dinner and even a tiara all paid for by local businesses.

Orange t-shirts, Kropp’s favorite color, were also made before the game giving Kropp the support and encouragement she said helped her pull through.

School officials were contacted about the incident and have yet to respond.