MILFORD — More than one month after their classmate was killed and their prom postponed, a group of high school students in Milford got the chance to dress up and dance.
A group of local businesses in Milford pitched in to make this year’s prom special for the Jonathan Law High School junior class that has gone through so much heartache.
Sixteen-year-old Maren Sanchez’s life was cut short in April when she was fatally stabbed at school. Classmate Christopher Plaskon, 17, has been charged with stabbing her, reportedly after she refused to go to the prom with him.
The school postponed the dance until Sunday night.
“I wanted to make it extra special for them,” said Heather Tkacs.
Tkacs, who owns Styles International Salon in Milford, offered free updos and styles for any Jonathan Law juniors going to the prom.
More than a dozen girls showed up to get their hair and makeup done at no cost to them.
“It was really awesome. They were very happy. They were looking beautiful. They felt beautiful,” said Tkacs.
The Autumn Rose Florist and Gift Shoppe in Milford donated purple rose corsages and boutonnieres to any student attending the prom. Purple was Maren’s favorite color.
“I thought she was pretty. She was beautiful, talented . She was in plays,” said Franco Pizzole.
Pizzole never knew Maren Sanchez, but the eighth-grader from Ansonia dyed his hair purple in her honor.
“Because of the tragedy, I wanted Maren to feel loved and that she’s remembered in a special way,” said Pizzole.
The twitter hashtag “Lawstrong” has become a slogan and catch phrase for the class of 2015. Lawstrong T-shirts were donated to the entire junior class.
One Jonathan Law student tweeted on prom night, “Beyond grateful for everything everyone has done for our prom all around Milford.”
“They just wanted to have a good time today, put the past in the past and have a great time for their prom,” said Tkacs.
In a Facebook post, Jonathan Law High School’s junior class prom planning committee said, “We have the most amazing community! Thank you to all the hair salons and florists who donated time and services on a day off. God bless you all.”