Briarcliff Middle School Holiday Boutique Kicks Off Festive Vibes

Briarcliff Middle School students recently kicked off the holiday season by coming together to raise nearly $1,000 for the American Cancer Society.

School clubs “Art and Clay,” under the direction of Jessica Dubin, “Marine Biology,” ran by Jessica Loprieno, “Greenhouse,” coordinated by Robert Iovino, and the “International Club,” ran by Johanna Foster, joined forces on Tuesday, Nov. 26 to put together a boutique that would have anyone feeling festive.

In addition, Diane Guida's “Home and Careers” classes contributed handcrafted needlepoint ornaments for sale, while Kelly Adams contributed a wide variety of handcrafted bracelets and key rings to the sale, and students helped sell them. Shoppers were able to purchase fresh herbs, candle and seashell centerpieces, jewelry, ornaments, bookmarks, origami figures, baked goods and more. The school orchestra, conducted by Anna Ostrofsky, gave a performance, as did the jazz band, which is conducted by Chris Melito.

“There was actually dancing in the aisles,” French and Spanish teacher Nancy Kress said. “Healthy refreshments were served by Robert Connolly, and the excitement in the room was palpable. Many parents and faculty members came to support the event, and in fewer than two hours, a record-breaking $970 was raised for The American Cancer Society.”

Kress added that the event was a tremendous success due to the hard work and dedication of both students and faculty members alike. Students, faculty members and parents made a dent in their holiday shopping, and participated in a raffle for two special items: a beautiful pottery bowl created by Jessica Dubin, and a Thanksgiving-themed basket of treats, donated by Mary Yulo.

“In the words of one sixth grade student, ‘I never expected that we would make so much to donate for cancer research,’” Kress said. “This event has become a tradition at BMS. It was a wonderful afternoon, filled with the spirit of giving.”