Port Washington Union Free School District’s John Philip Sousa Elementary School opened its closet to middle and high school students in need of formal wear for upcoming events during its ‘Dress Your Best’ Pop-Up Shop event on Feb. 27 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Port Jewish Center.
“With the help of our students and reading teacher Danielle Silverstein at Sousa, several students throughout our district will have the opportunity to choose the perfect outfit for their upcoming special occasion at no cost,” said Kathleen Mooney, superintendent of Port Washington Union Free School District. “This initiative directly aligns with the District’s on-going efforts to have students engage in positive actions to benefit those around them.”
Sousa’s Dress Your Best Pop-Up Shop initiative derived from a reading of the book, “The Hundred Dresses.” It tells the story of a young girl who is antagonized in school when she chooses to wear the same blue dress despite telling peers that she has hundreds of dresses in her closet.
Incorporating the building’s characterization programs—Hard Hat and RULER—Sousa’s students were inspired to embark on a journey of giving and compassion after learning valuable lessons from the story.
Spearheaded by Silverstein, students organized several flyers and advertising elements to inform local community members of the upcoming event. Until Feb. 20, the building’s faculty will be collecting new or like-new special occasion clothing such as shoes, suits, ties, dresses, prom dresses, accessories, clutches, and hangers.
Then, on Feb. 27, Port’s students will have the opportunity to try on the array of items donated by local organizations, teachers, staff, and families of the Port Washington community.
Students will be encouraged to pick out a new or slightly used formal wear outfit to take home as a complimentary outfit of choice for their special day whether it be prom, graduation, or a school concert.
