Once a year, tired grads stumble to bed after an all-nighter of last goodbyes and fond memories. But after totaling the sometimes costly receipts for graduation, regret can dampen the party’s success.

Throughout the school year, a few senior parents set up fundraisers to offset the cost of the year-end graduation party. Adhering to a budget keeps costs at a reasonable level. While it is customary for the activities of night to be a surprise, the general consensus from past students is that the night should not be missed.

“There’s tons of food- pretty much all you can eat- a lot of yearbook signing and lots of exciting stuff to do,” Kristy Howard, ’04, said. “I would recommend the night to everyone.”

One such fundraiser took place on Jan. 19, with a barbeque lunch for the high school. The senior parents set up, cooked and sold burgers with chips and a drink.

“The money will help pay for the facility, gifts and everything to do with Grad Night” Janet Kaiser, parent to Andrew Kaiser, ’05, said.

The parents are optimistic about getting all the money needed to provide a fun time for the senior class.

“This will be the Best Grad Night ever based on the enthusiasm and support we have received from the senior class,” Mr. Burford, parent of Jenna Burford, ’05, said.

While many students enjoy the change of pace hot lunches provide, a few are not thrilled with the competition.

“We don’t like it when they [the senior parents] sponsor lunches because then we can’t do lunches to raise money for Night of the Stars,” an anonymous member of Student Leadership said. “We miss out on a lot of really good fundraisers for student leadership.”

For more information on how to contribute to the senior class grad night, contact the high school office.