This time of year, the expense of shopping for prom dresses, tuxedos, and all the glitzy accessories can cause quite a bit of stress for students and families.
This financial burden is being lessened for students at North Henderson High School, thanks to a group of teachers who were concerned that some students could miss out on the annual tradition due to economic barriers.
The answer? No-cost dresses and tuxedos donated by students, for students. Still weeks away from North’s April 23rd junior-senior prom, the “Gilded Knight Fashion Show” gave students a runway look at the outfits this week, as their fellow classmates modeled the donated glamor..
Teachers Sophia Rinkert, Paul Jones, and Julie Hart developed the idea and organized the fashion show. Hart was inspired to develop the prom drive and fashion show for North, following the lead of her former high school teacher at West Henderson High, who held a prom dress drive at her alma mater.
“We just believe every student should be able to have the opportunity to go to prom without feeling a financial burden when it comes to getting prom attire,” said Hart.
Students have responded to the initiative with a great deal of enthusiasm and support.
“We have had over 90 students sign up to help make the initiative a success and take the lead,” Hart said. “Everyone is excited, supportive, and encouraged by the efforts to offer a special shopping experience within our school.”
The outfits are organized in a classroom where students can come in and shop for the donated outfits. Additionally, Mitchell’s in Asheville, Belk-Hendersonville, and Best Bride are all supporting the effort with various discounts, Hart said.
