High school is expensive. Though public high schools offer free education, extra curricular activities and academic classes can cost substantial money. Fortunately, there are several programs that help students finance these costs.
Princess Project is a Bay Area program that has provided donated prom dresses and accessories for girls who can't afford such items. Since the program's founding in 2002, Princess Project has always promoted self-confidence and individual beauty. They also value recycling and using the earth's resources wisely. Each high school can apply to Princess Project, beginning with "one slot" that allows the high schools to send 30 girls on a specific day to be outfitted for their prom. Additionally at Live Oak High School, the Fashion Design Class makes tailored gowns for sponsored girls.
Further, students can earn extra money for other social and academic purposes. Local high schools offer job opportunities in "work to earn" programs, which can finance school field trips, school supplies (graphing calculators cost $100), Advanced Placement testing fees and lab materials.
Teachers and administrators also offer creative ways to support students. Elective classes can have lab fees up to $50. One such class, Sobrato High School's Digital Photo, taught by Mr. Jim McDonald, offers a scholarship program for students who need financial assistance. Some of McDonald's private photography clients send their checks to Sobrato High School, which help fund the scholarship program. This is just one of dozens of scholarship funds sponsored by our teachers and schools.
High school Amnesty International clubs also support students by donating backpacks and school supplies. Another helpful club is the Lion's Club, whose main focus is to provide free eyeglasses for people who can't afford glasses. They also support sports leagues and provide coats for youth.
Our own Morgan Hill Rotary Club has built and expanded the El Toro Youth Club Building where youth can find a safe place to study and socialize. Rotary also provides school supplies as well as student scholarships.
It is important for teens to know that they can get necessary assistance from various school and community support centers. Many people are more than willing to help students have access to all of the activities that are offered, and they will often sponsor students with special financial needs.
All students should be aware of the opportunities available so they can become successful and happy adults. Some teens feel that they cannot participate in many social academic activities because of the financial burdens. Luckily, we have a community that is able and willing to support these students. Hopefully, as these student beneficiaries become adults, they will return the favor by supporting the next generation of youth in need.
Catherine Connor
Catherine Connor Catherine Connor is a junior at Ann Sobrato High School. She writes a monthly youth column for the Morgan Hill Times. She can be reached at cthrnpm@aol.com.
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