RRHS to have chemfree grad

Submitted by
Bob McGreevy, RRHS Principal

With Rainy River High School graduation ceremonies taking place on Tuesday, June 22 nd , grads and their parents are busy planning the first Chem-Free Grad celebration at RRHS in many years.
Several students became interested in finding an alternative to the traditional party that takes place on grad night. They wanted an opportunity to celebrate their achievement in a safe and controlled environment that was free of drugs and alcohol.
A meeting for participating students, their parents, and other community partners was held at the school on May 25. In addition to students and parents, the event is being supported many organizations in the area, including: the OPP, the RRHS School Council and staff, and the Rainy River Recreation Board.
At the meeting, parents and students discussed plans for the event. They volunteered to be on one or more of the three committees that were formed: fund raising, activities, and food/partners.
In advance of the event, participating students will sign a contract promising to be free of alcohol and drugs on grad night. The students and supervisors will meet at the Recreation Centre at 11:00 p.m. on grad night and remain at the Centre, free from drug, alcohol, or tobacco use until approximately 6:00 a.m. the following morning. While at the Centre, grads and their guests will be involved in a host of fun activities, including several rented ”AirBounce” games such as: Boxing, Bungee Run, Obstacle Challenge, and the Velcro Wall. As well, there will be casino and video games.
Parents and other volunteers are providing food which will be served throughout the night.
The Fund Raising Committee has undertaken a campaign to help cover the costs of this event.
Letters and visits are being made to several businesses and organizations in the area to seek their support. This support could take the form of money, or donations of merchandise or gift certificates. Any and all donations would be greatly appreciated.
It is the hope of this year’s Chem-Free Grad students that this will become an annual event. If you would like to support the students, you are invited to contact the school at 852-3284.