High school tradition, safe Grad Night, in jeopardy of being cancelled citing lack of donations

Park City High School Grad Night. Photo: courtesy of Grad Night Committee // Bari Nan Rothchild

PARK CITY, Utah—On June 6, over 400 seniors will graduate from Park City High School, for which the Parent Teacher Student Organization (PTSO) has organized the annual Grad Night celebration, led by volunteer PTO Chair Tara Stoker.

“They worked hard and deserve to celebrate their accomplishments,” Stoker said.

The PTSO continues to organize this event every year because statistically, one-third of all alcohol-related fatalities involving teenagers happen during prom and graduation season. This safe, drug and alcohol-free party is held on the night of graduation and is financed entirely through tax-deductible donations, so there is no charge to the graduating students. 

Grad Night Committee volunteer parent Bonita Hutchinson said, “We rely on parents, organizations, and community businesses to raise these funds.”

Last year, the event took place at the Basin Rec Fieldhouse, and this year it is slated to take place at Woodward, where the graduates will have private access to the Indoor Hub. The evening will also include casino games, a hypnotist, photo fun, a DJ, a snack bar, and an opportunity to win prizes.

Parents, local organizations, and the community provide the prizes. 

After grads have the opportunity to spend time with family, the party will be from 10:00 p.m. until 2:00 a.m. Woodward will be staffed with venue employees, parent volunteers, and hired security guards. Summit County police will also be in the area. 

Stoker added, “Please help your PTSO make this important celebratory tradition happen. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.”

Ways to give:

• Mail a check made out to PCHS PTSO Grad Night to: Park City High School, 1750 Kearns Blvd. Park City, UT, 84060
• Click here to learn how you can make an online donation to Grad Night.
• Consider donating gift items for the raffle such as gift cards to national chain restaurants or big box retailers which would likely be located where they’re attending colleges. Or things like new skateboards, bikes, computers, Air Pods, and more. Contact pchsgradnight@gmail.com for drop-off details. 
• Purchase a Yard Sign to celebrate your senior by clicking here.

“Thank you for your support,” concluded Stoker.