Norman — Debbie Kenney is a modern-day Cinderella’s fairy godmother, transforming — now past midnight — high schoolers into prom queens.
When Kenney, a teacher at Norman High School, heard her students talk about the steep prices of prom dresses at department stores four years ago, she waved her wand for a rack of something sparkly.
And this year — as with the last four — she’s enlisting help.
In April, Kenney and students in her sewing class will sell used prom dresses at the high school for the May 1 prom, and they’re seeking donated prom dresses from the community.
In fact, Kenney said she’s already had visions of racks and racks of sequins, lace, satin and tulle.
“I had a dream last night that we got a whole bunch of donated dresses. It was really exciting,” she said, adding that so far, this year has been the hardest. “I don’t know if it’s the economy or what, but we’re just really low on dresses. Hopefully, when people see there’s a need, they’ll step up.”
Kenney said there aren’t specifics for the type of donated dresses, which range from bridesmaid dresses to vintage dresses. Her students also provide alterations.
The dresses sell for $1 to $20, and the money earned from the sales will be donated to the Haiti relief fund.
Many dresses, however, are given away for free, she said.
“We want to make sure everyone gets a dress no matter what,” said Kenney, as she remembered when a girl last year — prom prospects dim with parents entangled in a divorce and finances on the fritz — found the perfect purple dress after trying on several others. “She had tears in her eyes. She had never dreamed she would be able to go before. It gives me goosebumps thinking about it.”
Dresses can be dropped off at the front office of Norman High School for the sale, which begins April 12.
Those interested in buying a dress can stop by Norman High School from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Kenney said to check in at the front desk and customers will be directed to her class.
Donations of jewelry and shoes also are accepted and sell for $1 or less.
For more information, call Kenney at 250-0714.
