Erinne Paisley wanted to raise awareness about the significant global educational gap between boys and girls, and to remind others of the privilege of access to secondary education. 

Instead of dropping hundreds of dollars on a dress to celebrate one evening, Erinne Paisley thought she’d help girls around the world access education instead.

The high schooler wore a handmade dress to her prom last month, showcasing a bold message to onlookers when it comes to a person’s gender and their ability to attend school: “I’ve received my education.  Not every woman has that right.. Malala.org.”

The dress — made from Paisley’s recycled math assignments, as CBC News reported — drew attention to the global gap between boys and girls when it comes to education.  According to U.S. Aid, about 62 million girls are barred from school simply because of their gender.

Paisley went on to donate $250.00 to the Malala Fund to help educate girls.