Dressing up for the Winterfest

An educator wanted to create a promlike occasion, though less formal.
YOUNGSTOWN -- City schools teacher Jeanne Constantino decided that disabled high school students in the area had few options for social events, so she did something about it.
That was four years ago, and the annual Winterfest dance she organized then for special needs students is surging in popularity.
This year, it's set for 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 1 at the Mahoning Country Club in Girard.
Last year, it drew about 150 youngsters from 15 high schools in the Mahoning Valley.
The teens love it, said Constantino, who teaches students with multiple disabilities at The Rayen High School on the North Side.
Though special needs youngsters are, of course, permitted to attend spring proms, they often don't, Constantino said.
In organizing the Winterfest, her goal was to establish something just for them with all the specialness of a prom but without the customary expense of tuxes, gowns and limousines.
What's not allowed
Though Winterfest participants are permitted such luxuries, dress is semi-formal.
That means no sweat pants, sweat shirts, jeans, shorts, sneakers or school uniforms.
Cost of the event is $7 per person and includes dinner.
A "Snow Princess" and "Snow Prince" will be crowned. A photographer and videographer will be present to record the festivities. Santa, Mrs. Claus and their elves also will make an appearance.
The dance will be chaperoned by Rayen staff, student helpers and Youngstown State University athletes.
Continued will be the policy of forbidding parents from attending after they drop off their children. The no-parents practice allows the youngsters to relax and interact with students from other school districts, Constantino said.
Reservations are preferred by Tuesday, though they're not mandatory.
To make them, or to get more information, contact Constantino at (330) 744-8548.