More than 100 family members and teachers gathered in the cafeteria at Hillpoint Elementary School to see a host of their students look fabulous for a good cause.

The 2018 Tiny Miss Hillpoint Pageant brought 30 contestants to the school stage Wednesday evening. The girls ranged from Early Start to fifth grade, and each brought her best smile and finest dresswear.

“This is the best thing that I’ve gotten to see in my entire life. My jaw is hurting from smiling so much,” said fourth-grade teacher Brandy Roberts, winner of the “Spirit of Hillpoint Staff Pageant” held in the same cafeteria on March 23.

Both pageants raised money for the March of Dimes, an organization determined to reduce premature births, infant mortality and birth defects. Tiny Miss Hillpoint raised more than $9,200 this year between entry fees and donations collected by the contestants.

“It’s about teaching the children how to help out in their community, and to show them that they can have fun while they’re doing it,” said kindergarten teacher Judith Flick, who is co-chair of the school’s March of Dimes committee with special education teacher Mary Beth Gribble.

The judges considered each contestant as they first strolled on stage in T-shirts and jeans. Then they went backstage to put on their dresses, heels and makeup. Each contestant was judged for her personality, confidence and how much she was having fun.

The assistant principal shared interesting facts about each of the girls like their favorite TV shows, food and school subjects. The girls strutted, twirled and waved to a cheering crowd of friends and family.

“I’m really impressed by their confidence and poise,” said assistant principal Dana Bilby, who co-announced the proceedings with her husband, Sean. “I just love it, love it, love it!”

One girl was crowned a winner in each grade level. From Early Start to fifth grade, the winners were Cheryl James, Ivy Latham, McKenzie Britt, Desireé Wyche, Leah Westfall, Inasah Mitchell and Kaci Doxey.

“I’m really happy,” said 7-year-old Desireé, who likes math, the show “Fuller House” and hot wings. “I thought all the other contestants were going to win. I’m very surprised.”

McKenzie had a wide smile after she was awarded twice: first for being the Tiny Miss Hillpoint of the first grade, and second for being the community service winner for collecting the most March of Dimes donations.

The 6-year-old likes pizza, dancing and — judging from her giddiness — being a winner.

“I just knew I was going to win,” she said as she held her trophy. “I just knew.”