Cypress Lake High School’s Panther Closet is a fantastic initiative aimed at supporting students in need. A unique resource that provides clothing for students who are breaking dress code, are in need due to hardship, or who just want a fun place to shop.
All items in the Panther Closet are free; the closet is stocked through donations from staff and Panther families.
“If you get dress-coded there’s no need to fear for the CLHS Panther Closet is here,” said senior Layla Salamone. “They have all different styles, all different types of clothing, all different sizes, and of course all the clothes are washed. So you can still be school appropriate and fashionable,” she added.
Junior Juliana Cole said, “I go because it is very convenient, the clothes are very comfortable, and up to date. I’ve gotten dress-coded one time and instead of having to wear a jacket where I would have been hot the entire day because we live in Florida, I was able to just go and find a new shirt.”
Items in the Panther Closet come from community support and compassion. While the Panther Closet is open Tuesdays and Thursdays during lunch, students can visit the closet more discreetly if they choose, ensuring they maintain their privacy.
Additionally, the Panther Closet offers special items like prom and homecoming dresses. Sometimes these items are donated new. The closet not only meets immediate needs like dress code but also fosters a supportive and inclusive school environment The CLHS Panther Closet is a great example of how our school comes together to ensure that every student has what they need to succeed.