High school proms are long standing traditions in communities across the United States. As the father of a Fairfield High School student, I have watched with special interest as this year’s Junior Class has planned the 2008 FHS Junior/Senior Prom to be held on May 17th. I am sure our students are looking forward to this very exciting evening, except perhaps the endless number of pictures to be taken by proud parents and family members. I know my camera will be ready!

However, the prom is only one part of the wonderful evening being planned for our students. Immediately following the prom, the Fifth Annual After-prom will be held at FHS in the Arena, Cafeteria and PAC. Beginning at midnight and continuing until 4:00 a.m., students will “Cruise the Islands” as FHS is transformed into a tropical paradise. Students who attend will find food, drinks, games, competitions, prizes, music, entertainment, and more. All FHS students are welcome at after-prom even it they don’t attend the prom itself. In addition to all this fun, After-prom provides a safe, alcohol-free, and chaperoned event for our students. We want to make sure that none of our students become one of the tragic prom-night stories that unfortunately occur.

After-prom could not happen without the amazing dedication of the Fairfield After-prom Committee. This group of hard working parents volunteer hours and hours of their time planning, organizing, and raising the funds necessary to host nearly 1,000 students. After-prom also receives tremendous support from our business community with over 30 local businesses contributing to the event this year. We will even be raffling off a two-year lease on a Toyota Sienna thanks to Performance Toyota/Scion!

But After-prom is not just for the students! The After-prom Committee is looking for adults to decorate FHS, run the activities, and help with clean-up early Sunday morning. You can contact Jill Statzer at 939-2073 to volunteer. The community is also welcome to attend the “After-prom Preview” at 10:00 p.m. on May 17th to see what the students can expect when they begin arriving at midnight.

High school memories stay with us for a life time. So volunteer some time to help and encourage your FHS students to go to after-prom. Please join us as we make sure our kids will have only wonderful memories of this year’s prom and after-prom.

Dr. Mark Morris is the president of the Fairfield Board of Education. He can be reached at morris_m@fairfieldcityschools.com.

Published in the Fairfield Echo, May 1, 2008.