Princeton High School hosts successful Pride Month event with community support

Under the warm glow of the Princeton Public School District's meeting room, a vibrant celebration of community and inclusivity unfolded as Doria Esposito, a special education teacher at Princeton High School, shared the success of the recent Pride event. With a heartfelt message from her co-creator, Bridget Schmidt, who was unable to attend, Esposito expressed gratitude for the support that made the event possible, emphasizing its importance in fostering understanding and connection within the school community.

This year's Pride event marked the third iteration, showcasing a variety of activities designed to engage and uplift the LGBTQIA+ community. Esposito recounted how the idea blossomed from a casual conversation about local festivals, leading to a realization that many voices within the community needed a platform to be heard. The event featured an array of activities, including soccer, henna art, trivia, and even psychic readings, all aimed at creating a safe and inclusive space for students and community members alike.

The event's success was bolstered by the generous support of local organizations, particularly the Princeton Regional Education Association (PREA), whose funding was crucial. Esposito highlighted the collaboration with Princeton House and Princeton Human Services, which aligned the event with Mental Health Awareness Month, further enriching the conversations around well-being and inclusivity.

As the meeting progressed, the board turned its attention to recognizing departing student board members. Maya, a graduating member, was honored for her contributions over the past year. Board members reflected on the valuable insights she and her peers brought to discussions, emphasizing the importance of understanding student perspectives beyond academic concerns.

The evening concluded with a sense of accomplishment and hope for the future, as Esposito encouraged anyone interested in participating in next year's Pride event to reach out early. The gathering not only celebrated diversity but also reinforced the commitment of the Princeton Public School District to create a nurturing environment for all students, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of community and purpose.