Spring ISD Students Say ‘Yes to the Dress’ for Prom, Thanks to Nonprofit Partnership
Isn't prom one of the most magical experiences in a girl's life? Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Graceful Gowns nonprofit and the Spring ISD Family and Community Engagement Department, prom has become extra special for over a hundred Spring ISD senior girls and their parents.
Led by founder Shante Thompson, as well as co-founder and Spring ISD Trustee Kelly Hodges, the Graceful Gowns Initiative gathered stunning dresses, shoes, purses, jewelry, and makeup for approximately 120 students. According to Thompson, giving back to the community goes beyond providing free prom attire. It’s about creating a transformative experience for girls by fostering discussions on confidence and grace.
For a day, the Spring ISD Community Engagement Center was transformed into a beautifully decorated boutique themed “Say Yes to the Dress!” Each girl was paired with their own fashion advisor, who guided them in finding their perfect prom look and offered encouragement during fittings. Additionally, girls participated in makeup and hair workshops, to ensure every girl felt like royalty.
Source: Spring ISDYanette Ruiz, a proud Spring High School parent, attended the event with her daughter Ashley and shared her joy and gratitude.
"I feel happy and blessed because my daughter had pictured an amazing dress, and she found it here. This is helping the community, and us because we are saving little by little to send Ashley to college, and this is helping tremendously."
As the anticipation of prom and graduation grows, so does the financial strain on many families. On average, a girl will invest about $600 to $1,000 on this significant event.
At the conclusion of the event, Tranita Carroll, Executive Director of Spring ISD’s Family and Community Engagement Department, was moved by the joy evident on the faces of the students and their families.
Source: Spring ISD“We want our girls to feel empowered and beautiful as they celebrate the milestone of high school graduation,” Carroll said. “We anticipate making this an annual event to benefit even more students.”
Spring ISD appreciates the invaluable contributions of numerous volunteers, sponsors, and, notably, the Board members of The Graceful Gowns Initiative: Shante Thomas, President; Kelly P. Hodges, Vice President; Tranita Carroll, Secretary; Dr. Rachel Davis; Dr. Ashley Devers; Shesieda Davis, Treasurer; and Dr. Carmen Bates. Their dedication and support were instrumental in making the event possible.
To learn more about Graceful Gowns Initiative or to donate, click here. Spring ISD Seniors may visit the Community Engagement Center until April 30, 2024 to select a dress. For more information, call 281-891-6060.
Source: Spring ISD
