This month, some Belleville West teachers are participating in a fundraiser to honor a former teacher by not shaving their facial hair. Students can donate for a chance to choose how the winning teacher is shaved at the end of the month. 

This No-Shave November fundraiser organized by Mr. Trapp, Mr. Sangiolo and Mr. Stephens is benefiting prostate cancer research and West Helping West, an organization that provides resources for students in need. 

Another big motivation for the fundraiser was to support the Bob Flake Foundation, created for a beloved Belleville West science teacher who passed away from prostate cancer in December of 2021. 

“…there were a lot of teachers that knew [Flake] and respected him as a brother and great friend,” math teacher and fundraiser co-organizer Mr. Pete Trapp said, “so knowing how he was, it’s been a big point for us all to really continue to have his name come up. At the same time, we also like to have a little bit of fun around the school and create something that the kids and staff can get involved in.”

For Belleville West English teacher and No-Shave November participant Dr. Andy Brunner, participating was an opportunity to honor a friend and support an important cause. 

“I was good friends with Mr. Flake, and part of it is going to his scholarship and name, and the other half is going to cancer research,” Brunner said, “so it was kind of a no-brainer to do something that is very minimal effort but for the greater good.”

Students can participate until the end of the month by placing donations in participating teachers’ milk jugs to put their name in the running to choose how the winning teacher is shaved. 

“Every teacher has a milk jug with their face on it…” Brunner said, “They’re going to move those to the cafeteria towards the end of the month, and students can donate in the place they go every day,”

Check back on November 26th to see pictures of the winner and his new look!