Cheers, laughter and the hum of clippers filled the gymnasium at St. Laurence High School on Friday, March 13, as students and staff took part in a spirited head-shaving event to raise money and awareness for childhood cancer.
The school is located at 5556 W. 77th St. in Burbank.
Now in its fourth year since being revived, the St. Baldrick’s-inspired fundraiser continues a tradition that dates back to when the school was all-boys, according to Theresa Harmening, a full-time science teacher and student council co-moderator.
“We brought it back recently, and this is now our fourth year doing it, and we hope to have many more,” Harmening said.
This year, 13 participants, including 10 students and three staff members, volunteered to have their heads shaved or hair cut. The group represented a range of grade levels, with most opting for full head shaves. Two female participants donated eight inches of hair, while one male faculty member combined a hair donation with a full shave.
Beyond the dramatic transformations, the event featured a full lineup of activities designed to engage the entire student body. Trivia questions about bald celebrities were held during the school day, while the main event included Irish dancing, live bagpipe performances, a Shamrock shake chugging contest, a gold-out crowd competition and a trick shot challenge.
“We try to get as many kids involved as possible,” Harmening said.
In past years, alumni cosmetologists assisted with the head shaving, but this year, licensed barbers connected to students volunteered their time to perform the cuts.
As of the event, more than $2,000 had been raised online, with additional funds collected through a $2 dress-down day and lunch donations. Organizers said they hope to surpass $3,000 by the end of the day.
Many participants said their motivation goes beyond fundraising totals. Harmening said nearly all those involved have a personal connection to the cause.
“When I asked all of the students and teacher participants why they chose to do St. Baldrick’s this year, it was a resounding want to help others and to bring awareness to childhood cancers,” she said. “Almost all of them know someone personally in their family that they were doing this in honor.”
One teacher participated in honor of her niece, while another said he wanted to show his daughter that there are many ways to help others.
Harmening said the event’s impact extends beyond dollars raised.
“I love that it brings the school community together,” she said. “It goes above monetary donations, and the people involved are doing a selfless act to raise awareness and money.”
