Pablo Carrillo was shocked to see his science teacher dressed Monday in women’s garb.

The Joshua Cowell School seventh-grade student was among those responsible for instructor Brian Bilbao’s wear-for-the-day appearance.

“He made a bet that he would dress all day if the junior high students won out on spirit day,” Principal Harriet Myrick said.

“(The seventh- and eighth- grade students) won based on the percentage involved,” she added.

For Bilbao, it was just his way of firing up the students.

“I’ll do whatever it takes to get them involved,” he said.

His wardrobe was nothing outlandish. Bilbao indicated that his wife dug up the simple black dress while one of his fellow teachers brought him a hat. Myrick provided the earrings.

Myrick noted that the school conducts a spirit day on Fridays, with the enthusiasm of seventh- and eighth- grade students usually wavering.

When Bilbao arrived to school wearing a dress he reportedly created quite a mob scene.

“I thought it was funny,” said Christopher Padilla, a seventh-grade student.

Bilbao, in addition, didn’t let his appearance ruin his lunch plans. “I went to El Pollo Loco dressed this way,” he said.

Bilbao added that his students are currently making plans on the next wager.

However, he didn’t appear too concerned.

For Bilbao, it’s anything just to get them involved.

To reach reporter Vince Rembulat, e-mail vrembulat@mantecabulletin.com