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West Prairie High School's Media Center transformed into a welcoming boutique Dec. 15, giving girls the chance to shop in a supportive, judgment-free space thanks to a team of dedicated staff and community partners.
The second annual West Prairie Girls Clothing Boutique, organized by Brooke Beckner, with support from Haley Davison, Heather Decounter, Jennifer Henry, Lottie Havens and the lunch staff, was originally scheduled for Dec. 12, but was postponed due to weather- related school closures. This year marked Davison's first time helping with the event, and she quickly became an essential part of the planning and execution.
'My favorite part of the boutique was getting to see all the girls get excited about the clothes we had available for them and watching them get to shop with their friends,' Davison said. 'I felt very happy and fulfilled all day by getting to be a part of the boutique experience with the girls.'
All items at the boutique were donated and carefully inspected, and clothing that was not selected was donated to the Salvation Army and neighboring school districts, including Southeastern's Closet. Maurice's partnered with West Prairie this year, contributing a large number of high-quality pieces, Beckner added.
'Schools host clothing drives all the time, but I didn't want ours to feel like a quick stop for hand-me-downs,' Beckner shared. 'I wanted something different, something dignified, meaningful and empowering.'
As students entered the Media Center, they were greeted with hot chocolate and smiling faces, setting a welcoming tone for the experience. The boutique featured clothing, coats, shoes, lip gloss, claw clips and a raffle. The idea for the boutique began last year as Beckner hoped to create a positive, welcoming environment for girls to feel cared for and make connections with staff.
'This event is open to all our female students, not just those with financial need, because removing stigma is essential,' Beckner said. 'The boutique is about community, connection and shared joy; it’s about coming together as Lady Cyclones.'
Junior Maddie Whitlock, who attended the boutique for the second year, said the effort behind the event did not go unnoticed.
'Personally, I had an amazing time,' she said. 'Overall, I enjoyed the hard work put into the boutique to make us young women happy.'
With strong community support and growing enthusiasm, organizers hope the West Prairie Girls Clothing Boutique will continue to be an annual tradition that leaves students feeling confident, valued and connected.
