Project Graduation (PG) is a program offered by many high schools in the United States, in which organized, adult-supervised and alcohol-free activities are offered as part of a post-graduation party, as an alternative to student-run events involving alcoholic beverages or drugs.
At Franklin High School (FHS), it's no exception. PG was started back in 2001 as a way to keep their students safe on graduation night. "Prior to PG, our county would occasionally have a student injury or death due to an auto accident the night of graduation. It’s been a great event for our students," says Dr. Shane Pantall, Principal at FHS.
Students are met by a red carpet entrance at 10:30 PM and games and activities are set up all over the school. Graduates enjoy a DJ, casino games, chair massages, bingo, dodgeball, inflatable games and so much more. Cash and prize giveaways, along with food and a coffee bar all night long round out the evening which usually ends at 6:00 AM the next morning. Prizes include Macbooks, Yeti's, gift cards and tickets to places like Holiday World.
Dr. Pantall adds, "We couldn’t have PG without the tremendous support of our parents." There is a PG committee, headed last year by Samantha Jay and Marilyn Trussell, that begins working on the event in early March. Parents also help solicit donations and sponsors from local businesses. This year sponsors included Griffith Law, Lee Company, Culver's, Birdwell & Mutlak Dentistry, Simon Real Estate, Studio 1-2-1, Club Forms, Best Life Balloons and Kane Fishing Gear.
"What a privilege PG has been. I've had three out of four children attend as they've graduated. Every one of them has loved and enjoyed it, as do I as a mom!," says Kristin Long, former PTO president.