School Staff Member Helps Students Attend Prom

Adrian Perkins-Sledge provides free dresses, suits and accessories through the Diamond and King Prom Closet at Menlo-Atherton High School.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 5:26am

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An abstracted, out-of-focus photograph in warm, hazy tones depicting a group of high school students laughing and embracing, their faces blurred but their expressions of joy and celebration clearly visible, conceptually representing the inclusive and celebratory spirit of the Prom Closet.The Diamond and King Prom Closet at Menlo-Atherton High School helps students feel confident, celebrated and included on prom night, regardless of their financial circumstances.East Palo Alto Today

Adrian Perkins-Sledge, a staff member at Menlo-Atherton High School in California, has been organizing the Diamond and King Prom Closet since 2015. The program provides free prom attire and accessories to any student who needs it, ensuring cost is never a barrier to feeling confident and included on prom night.

Why it matters

Perkins-Sledge's efforts to support students in need reflect the transformative impact that school staff can have on young people's lives. By creating an inclusive and welcoming environment, the Prom Closet helps students who may be facing instability or hardship at home to feel seen, valued and empowered.

The details

Perkins-Sledge, who grew up facing her own challenges with homelessness and poverty, was inspired to start the Prom Closet after overhearing a student say they couldn't afford to go to prom. She began collecting donated dresses, suits, shoes and accessories, and the program has since grown to serve any student who wants or needs the resources. On prom night, Perkins-Sledge even helps students with hair and makeup to ensure they feel confident and celebrated.

  • Perkins-Sledge started the Diamond and King Prom Closet in 2015.
  • The Prom Closet continues to operate each year before prom season.

The players

Adrian Perkins-Sledge

A staff member at Menlo-Atherton High School who organizes the Diamond and King Prom Closet, providing free prom attire and accessories to students.

Menlo-Atherton High School

The high school where Perkins-Sledge works and where the Diamond and King Prom Closet is based.

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What they’re saying

“Hope is often the first thing we lose when we're in the middle of a storm. But it's also the very first thing that pulls us back.”

— Adrian Perkins-Sledge, School Staff Member

What’s next

The Diamond and King Prom Closet will continue to operate each year before prom season, providing free dresses, suits and accessories to Menlo-Atherton High School students.

The takeaway

Perkins-Sledge's work with the Prom Closet demonstrates the profound impact that school staff can have in supporting students facing challenges and creating a more inclusive, welcoming environment for all.