Letter from the Superintendent Regarding High School Proms

April 10th, 2024

The following message was shared with high school families by HCPSS Acting Superintendent William J. Barnes:

As we approach the last few months of the school year, we have much to look forward to—proms and graduations included. Parents/guardians want these experiences to be memorable and want our teens to stay safe and make good decisions.

Prom season can be a particularly dangerous time for our teens who find themselves in the wrong situation, with the temptation of alcohol and drugs impairing the judgement of our young and inexperienced drivers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, teens are more likely than anyone else to be killed in an alcohol-related crash. Data shows 19% of 15- to 18-year-old passenger vehicle drivers involved in fatal crashes in 2021 had been drinking. Illicit, as well as prescribed and over-the-counter drugs, also can affect your teen’s driving. I encourage you to talk with your teen about alcohol and drug use. Substance abuse supports and resources are available on the HCPSS website.

I am grateful to each of our high school’s PTSAs/Boosters that have created fun, safe, alcohol- and drug-free events for students to attend after prom to enhance and extend their celebration. I highly encourage all students to be part of the exciting after-prom activities at their school.

The safety of your children is always top of mind, and I strongly urge you to talk to your children about making good decisions and staying safe at prom and all of the end of the year celebrations.

I hope your children are excited about all the upcoming events at their schools over the next few months. I look forward to an exciting and safe prom season and celebrating with all our graduating seniors in May.