Victoria Independent School District recognizes the financial challenges many students face when purchasing graduation gowns, so we are launching a pilot program to accept donations of gently used gowns. These gowns, which have remained unchanged for at least three years, can certainly be reused, making participating in graduation more accessible for all students.
Graduating from high school is a significant milestone in a student's life, but the costs associated with this achievement can sometimes be prohibitive. One such expense is the graduation gown, a symbol of accomplishment. However, for many students and their families, the cost of a new gown can be a financial burden, particularly in times of economic hardship.
VISD's new initiative, GownShare is a testament to our commitment to educational equity. By accepting donations of used graduation gowns, we aim to:
Reduce Financial Barriers: This initiative will make graduation more affordable for students and their families, ensuring that all students have an equal opportunity to participate in this important rite of passage.
Foster Community Engagement: The gown donation program encourages community members, alumni, and businesses to contribute to the success of our students, reinforcing the sense of community and solidarity within the VISD family.
VISD will work closely with VISD Success Academy and Victoria East and West High Schools to implement this program effectively. Distribution of caps and gowns will be based on the amount donated.
Here's how it will operate:
Donation Drop-Off Points:
VISD Connections Center, 3002 E. North Street, Suite J (Located on the former Stroman Campus, to the right of the tennis courts)
Midcoast Family Services, 2010 N. Navarro Suite A, Victoria
All donated graduation gowns must be in good condition
VISD Connections staff will inspect donated gowns to ensure they are in good condition and cleaned prior to distributing to students.
Students in need of a donated gown for graduation should contact the Student Support Coordinator at their home campus. *VISD Connections will fill orders and send them to the home campus to be delivered to the student.
VISD invites all members of our community, including alumni, parents, local businesses, and anyone interested in supporting our graduating students, to participate in this initiative.
You can contribute by:
Donating Gently Used Gowns from graduation years 2019-2023: If you have a graduation gown in good condition that you no longer need, please consider donating it to one of our drop-off locations.
Spreading the Word: Help us raise awareness about this program within our community. Share the news on social media, encourage your friends and family to donate, and get involved in our efforts to support our students.
VISD's GownShare initiative to accept donations of used graduation gowns is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to achieve their dreams - we are committed to students growing their genius and Finding Their “AND.” By reducing financial barriers we aim to strengthen our community and provide valuable support to our students.
We invite everyone to join us in making this program a resounding success and empowering our students for a brighter future.
*Gowns will be made available only based on the number donated.