Elementary school graduation may not have the same luster as graduating from high school, but in the eyes of a Grade 7 student it might represent the first gateway into a much bigger world.
Back for its seventh year, 44Dresses will help many students in the North Vancouver School District celebrate their farewell to elementary school by inviting some students to choose a special outfit for end-of-year festivities.
Since its inception, 44Dresses has supported more than 800 North Shore students, some of whom come from families that might have trouble affording special graduation clothing for an end-of-year event, celebrate their transition to high school.
“We shared the vision that this event is not about what you wear. It’s about taking the worry around clothing off the table,” said Carisbrooke Elementary principal Lisa Upton, who founded the annual event along with Elena Grant. “We want the kids to feel powerful in whatever clothing they wear. And so when the students come, this is also an opportunity for them to play and try on different types of clothing to see what helps them feel like their best self.”
Grade 12 student leaders in North Vancouver high schools are preparing to gather donations of age-appropriate party clothes and accessories in support of the Grade 7s’ transition to secondary school.
The clothing drive is being held April 1-22, at which point dresses, slacks, skirts, suits, shorts, shoes and other items can be dropped off at school district high schools as well as the Education Services Centre located at 2121 Lonsdale Ave.
“We’re looking for any kind of clothing that is different, funky, cool,” said Upton. “We had the most beautiful purple Doc Martens donated last year with a leather jacket.”
The Boutique Day is slated for April 28, when students get to come in and choose their special outfit.
Sizes from youth-sized small to adult-sized extra large are needed, and all donations need to come with their own hanger, according to the North Vancouver School District.
“We want to empower young people to reflect on who they are,” said Upton. “How do you find your best self? That’s the real goal of 44Dresses.”
