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UFT co-sponsors Prom Mania

Saying yes to the dress — or suit!
New York Teacher
Bruce Cotler
A student shows off her selection.
Girls seem pleased with their  finds.
Bruce Cotler
Girls seem pleased with their  finds.
Boys browse racks of dress suits.
Bruce Cotler
Boys browse racks of dress suits.

When Elianna was asked about her expectations for prom night, she didn’t hesitate: “A night to remember,” she said. She and fellow members of the Class of 2015 at the International School for Liberal Arts in the Kingsbridge section of the Bronx had a jumpstart on those memories, thanks to Prom Mania. Hundreds of dresses, shoes and other accessories were donated by UFT members and other nonprofit organizations for the May 8 event, which was sponsored by the UFT and Trinity Wall Street, the historic church in downtown Manhattan. Six schools and 178 students in all participated. Conference rooms at UFT headquarters were transformed into showrooms and dressing rooms. Boys also had a chance to try on jackets and ties. Girls got to select costume jewelry and evening bags. A raffle was held for perfume, aftershave and other toiletries for the special night. “This is great,” said Belkis Estevez, a guidance counselor at the International School for Liberal Arts. “These students are first generation coming to the U.S., and some have just arrived last year, mostly from the Dominican Republic.” Nabila Centeno, a social studies teacher, said many of the students have jobs to help their families and appreciate the help. “A $200 dress means a lot,” she said. Gym teacher and volleyball coach Andrea Chirinos said that many of the students had been concerned they wouldn’t have anything appropriate to wear on the special night. “They’re so happy because now they’ll have what they need to go to the prom.”