At Naples Central School District, CSEA members are making sure every student has the chance to feel confident and celebrated on prom night, no matter their financial situation.
Naples CSD Unit Vice President Holly Rector recently helped bring that vision to life through a new initiative, “Your Prom Night. Our Gift.” A district employee for more than 26 years, Rector said she had been involved in various union committees over the years, but stepping into her new leadership role gave her the opportunity to turn an idea into action.
Rector said the support from fellow union leaders was immediate. Unit President Adam Fitzgerald encouraged her to move forward, offering to help wherever needed. Unit Secretary Brianna Battin, a clerk typist in the school’s front office, also jumped in to help organize the effort.
Battin manages student sign-ups for the shop and keeps track of requests to make the experience even more meaningful.
“I was asked to get some different accessories, like false eyelashes, from one of the students,” Battin said. “Not something you would think of, but I’m happy to look online and see if we can’t add some to the room.”
Students who sign up are invited to visit a small room transformed into a prom boutique, filled with donated dresses, dress shirts, pants, shoes and accessories from staff and the school community.
“It’s something special to see their faces light up when they find an outfit they can take,” Rector said. “We even have bags for them so if they need to take it on the bus, it keeps it a little confidential.” With prom approaching in early May, Rector hopes more students take part. Some who have already visited, she said, shared that because of the program, they now plan to attend prom.
Through this effort, CSEA members are going beyond their day-to-day roles, helping ensure every student can take part in a milestone moment with confidence and pride.
— Sara McNicholas