Thousands of men stop shaving for the month of November for a variety of causes, but at Hoosick Falls Central School the shaving ceases until March. Six faculty and staff members are participating in the 3rd Annual Isabel McGuire Beard-Off, which is a fundraiser for the Isabel McGuire Scholarship Fund.
[private]
The gentlemen grow their beards with each month having a theme; No-Shave November, DecemBeard, Manuary, Februhairy and March Man-ness.
In March, students purchase raffle tickets for the opportunity to shave the faculty and staff beards however they want. After shaving, the men have to wear these new “beardcuts” for the entirety of the following school day.
The most important part of this event is that all of the money raised is donated to the Isabel McGuire Scholarship Fund, which is something very dear to everyone here at HFCS.
Last year, this event raised over $1,000 through raffle tickets and t-shirt sales, and the bearded team is looking to exceed that number this year.
The volunteers who have agreed to grow an immensely manly beard for a few months are Rob Viera (Art Teacher), Damien Bundrick (Math Teacher), James Lynch (Science Teacher), Tony Malikowski (Technology and Science Teacher), Adam Cabana (Teacher Aide), and Brian Bushner (Community Information Officer).
Mr. Viera explained that, “It started out three years ago with Bill Clarimont and myself. We were just growing our beards as a competition. When Isabel passed away, we turned it into a fundraiser. Mr. Bundrick joined in too; we did the shaving in the hallway. It was very informal but the kids were excited to participate.”
The event was so popular that the second year the shaving raffle was held during an assembly in the gymnasium. Mr. Viera, who organizes the event said, “We’ve done it each year because it does so well. We try to raise more awareness and money each year. It’s a big community thing at this point – everyone loved Isabel.”
Mr. Viera adds, “This teaches our kids how to give back – you really see how the district comes together, everyone contributes money and support. This isn’t a wealthy community but they always come through and give generously.”
Isabel McGuire passed away March 13, 2014; she was only 48 years old. In 1995, she took the high school math position at Hoosick Falls Central School, and was in her 18th year teaching at the time of her passing. Her impression on students and her love for teaching was inspiring. The HFCSD family of colleagues and students still have a deep respect and love for Isabel, who is missed every day.[/private]