Princess Club Helps Students Attend Prom

Prom night is one of the fondest memories people have of high school. The excitement of who’s going with whom, coupled with the formal attire and fancy venue, keeps many high schoolers on their toes in the midst of what is known as “prom season.” 

But not all high school students are excited. In fact, some don't even consider attending prom because they can't afford the many costs associated with the event. Fortunately, offers a solution for these students: the Princess Club.

The Princess Club provides prom dresses and accessories for Logan and students who can't afford them.

The project started last year under the collaboration of Logan ethnic studies teachers Tina Bobadilla-Mastel and Gabriela Esquivez. Students who had both teachers approached them with the idea, which is based on but not affiliated with the Princess Project, which serves the entire Bay Area.

“Last year in my Ethnic Women Studies class, I gave a community service project to my students,” Esquivez said. “A group of girls came up with the idea—they wanted to help needy and deserving students. They knew how expensive senior year is and wanted to make a change.”

According to Bobadilla-Mastel, the socioeconomic inequity of students within the district is what inspired her to get involved.

“I’m frustrated that students are left out because of the expense,” she said. “A lot of people aren’t going because of it, and it’s not fair.”

Although the project is primarily intended to provide financial assistance to students, Bobadilla-Mastel said that it is also her attempt to shed light on social issues. 

“I want to spread public awareness,” she said. “There are families in need, and I want to show community members that they can help. I hope that it will instill feelings of obligation. It’s our obligation in every community to help those around us.”

Bobadilla-Mastel noted that they are in the process of finding a tuxedo rental company that is willing to offer tuxedos for free or at a reduced price because they “don’t get to do as much for the gentlemen.”

The club also provides caps and gowns for high school graduation and middle school promotion.

Community members are highly encouraged to donate any dresses, accessories, suits or vests. In addition, the advisors are asking for donations of rolling racks and steamers.

Donations can be given to Bobadilla-Mastel or Esquivez, or dropped off to any employee at through the month of April.

Those interested in obtaining a gown can give their name to any teacher, counselor or administrator whom they feel comfortable telling. Their name will then be passed along to the teachers. All names remain strictly confidential, and no financial records are pulled up.