Future Fashionistas: HCES Students Showcase Dreams and Skills in 'Fashion with a Purpose’

CAMP HUMPHREYS, SOUTH KOREA – The halls of Humphrey Central Elementary School (HCES) were abuzz with excitement as students participated in the "Fashion with a Purpose" event. This initiative allowed pre-kindergarten students to dress up in themed outfits, showcasing their aspirations, formal attire, traditional clothing, and readiness for kindergarten. The event was the culmination of several weeks of learning about clothing, its production, and care, as part of the Creative Curriculum for Prekindergarten.
The young fashionistas strutted their stuff in professional gear, embodying their future career dreams. From doctors and police officers to race car drivers and paleontologists, the students' outfits reflected their ambitions and sparked conversations about different professions.
"Dressing like a baseball player gives me fun memories of the baseball games I have watched,” said Victor, a student in Ms. Edie Duncan’s class.
In addition to professional attire, the students donned their best formal wear, learning the significance of dressing appropriately for special occasions. The sight of little ones in suits and dresses brought smiles to the faces of teachers and parents alike.
“It makes me feel beautiful and it makes me look like a princess. It makes me feel so happy with it,” said Eliana, a student in Ms. Tais Lopez’ class. “There are sparkles on the dress that make me feel like a ballerina princess.”
The event also featured a segment called "Getting Ready for Kindergarten," where students showcased outfits suitable for their upcoming transition to kindergarten. This part of the event aimed to ease any anxieties about the next step in their educational journey.
“The children were thrilled to showcase their creativity and confidence on the runway, and it was heartwarming to see the joy on their faces and their fierce attitudes,” Ms. Lopez said.
Adding a touch of cultural richness, some students wore traditional clothing such as hanboks, celebrating their heritage and the diversity within the school community. The vibrant colors and intricate designs of the hanboks captivated everyone, highlighting the beauty and significance of traditional attire.
“My clothes remind me of home,” said Natalie, a student in Ms. Leann Monigold’s class.
Overall, the "Fashion With a Purpose" event at Humphrey's Central Elementary School was a resounding success. It highlighted the importance of practical education and provided students with a platform to express their creativity and aspirations.
“I loved attending the fashion with a purpose show,” shared pre-kindergarten parent Amanda Bender. “It was a creative way to conclude the unit on clothes.”
As the event concluded, the smiles on the faces of the young participants were a testament to the joy and learning they experienced.

