CARSON, IA — As the holiday season approaches, one Riverside teacher is making sure every student feels confident on concert night.
Jill Weathers, a kindergarten teacher at Oakland Elementary School, has turned a simple idea into a heartwarming community effort: the Holiday Clothing Swap. Weathers noticed that many families purchase festive clothing for school concerts that their children wear only once or twice. Wanting to ease that burden while promoting community sharing, she began collecting gently used holiday attire and organizing free “shopping” days for Riverside families.
“I know how quickly kids grow and how expensive special-occasion clothing can be,” Weathers said. “I wanted to create something that helps families while also bringing our community together. This way, those outfits can bring joy to more than one child.”
The next shopping day will be held on Monday, November 10, from 3:45 to 5:00 p.m. at Oakland Elementary. It is a completely free event, open to all Riverside families. Donated clothing items are sorted and displayed so parents and students can browse and find concert-ready outfits at no cost.
Families who cannot make that time are encouraged to contact Jill directly at jweathers@riverside.k12.ia.us to arrange another opportunity.
Weathers says the community’s outpouring of generosity has been inspiring.
“It’s amazing to see how many people want to help,” she said. “Every donation makes a difference. It’s really about kindness, connection, and making sure every student feels special for the holiday concert.”
The next holiday concert in the district will be the Elementary Winter Concert, which will take place on December 15 at Riverside High School.