Pecatonica High School Key Club hosts 5th Annual Mr. PHS Pageant

Mr. PHS 2022 and Best Answer went to senior Jon Baker. He was escorted by Kaiya Black.

On Feb. 26, 12 young men took the stage at Pecatonica High School to compete for the title of Mr. PHS.

Co-chaired by Key Club members Ashley Burrow and Payton Kasper, the 5th Annual Mr. PHS pageant raised over $4,700 in support of the Rockford-based Kids Around the World organization.

Co-chair Ashley Burrow and 2021 Mr. PHS Korbin Gann hosted the event. Throughout the night, judges and audience members were treated to a grand march, a choreographed dance, a dash for cash, and a lot of smiles and laughter.

The 12 contestants began fundraising the week before the event, and on the night of the pageant, competed in the categories of formal wear, outfit of choice, talent, fundraising, and question.

At the end of the night, awards were given and the top three contestants were announced, leading to the crowning of senior Jon Baker as the 2022 Mr. PHS.

The Mr. PHS co-chairs and advisor Michelle Johnson wish to thank all the contestants and their attendants, parents, judges, audience members, behind-the-scenes workers, and businesses who helped make this event such a success.

More photos of the event and a link to the fundraiser webpage can be found on the Mr. Pecatonica High School Facebook page.

The Key Club is still accepting donations, and any amount is greatly appreciated. Once the goal of $5,400 is achieved, the Key Club will be able to host an all-school event in which each Pec High School student will have a hand in packing 20,000 meals for children in need.

To date, the Mr. PHS pageant has brought in over $17,000 for organizations such as The Thirst Project, The Children’s Miracle Network, The Ocean Cleanup, ShelterBox USA, and now Kids Around the World.