Gowns Going Green: A sustainable option for graduates at Redmond High School

As graduation season approaches each spring, families and schools prepare for a milestone moment in every student’s educational journey. At Redmond High School, a parent‑led effort is offering seniors a new option, one that supports both students and the environment.

The Gowns Going Green initiative began as parents of the Class of 2025 learned that seniors traditionally purchased a brand-new graduation gown each year, despite the gown’s short period of use. Recognizing an opportunity to reduce waste and support students, the Redmond High School PTSA developed a system to collect, clean and redistribute gently used gowns for future graduating classes.

The goal is simple: reduce the number of gowns that end up in landfills while giving families a cost‑free alternative during an already expensive time of year.

To make this possible, PTSA volunteers coordinated donation drives, inviting alumni to return their gowns after graduation. Volunteers sorted and inventoried the donated gowns and organized “Get‑A‑Gown” events where seniors could pick up a gown at no cost. Many students in the Class of 2025 participated, allowing the program to quickly build momentum. Additional donation opportunities were scheduled during school breaks, when recent graduates were more likely to be home and able to contribute.

During the 2025–26 school year, the PTSA has already hosted multiple gown‑distribution events, expanding access to current juniors and future graduating classes. With each donation and each reused gown, the program helps reduce environmental impact while offering an affordable option for families.

Looking ahead, the Gowns Going Green program aims to continue growing its inventory and community participation. The effort reflects a broader commitment within the district to sustainable practices and responsible resource use.