Dear Parent or Guardian:

 

             As the prom and other end-of-year activities approach, I am writing to you to discuss the upcoming events and to ask your help in insuring that the festivities will not only be memorable, but safe.  We cannot deny that some students may seek to “enhance” their experience with alcohol and/or other drugs at pre-prom or post-prom gatherings.  Obviously, alcohol will not be available for consumption at any of the school-sponsored end-of-year events.

             In addition to preventing alcohol and drug use, another concern I know we share is the consumption of alcohol and/or drugs and driving.  This problem, which threatens people of all ages, affects our teenagers even more severely.  It is the LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH for 16-19 years olds, especially at this time of year.  Sixty percent of all fatally injured teenage drivers had alcohol in the bloodstream.  The use of “other”drugs will alter a driver’s perception and coordination skills.  This is especially frightening when we take into account a teenager’s inexperience behind the wheel.  Safe driving requires a clear head.

             I want to alert you that Junior Driver’s Licenses are not valid on prom nights.  Any student convicted of a DWI or DWAI (Driving While Your Ability is Impaired) will have his/her license revoked for at least one year.  In addition, there will be fines and other penalties, including the possibility of jail.  It is also important to know that those who host gatherings where alcohol is served to minors are liable for personal and/or property damages caused by the individual.

             In order to provide a safe prom and other end-of-year events, I have some suggestions:

             1. I urge you to communicate to your youngsters your expectations for appropriate behavior (no alcohol, no drugs), and to adequately supervise such gatherings if they take place in your home.

             2. Please discuss the dangers of drinking and/or drug use with driving, as they relate to both driver and passenger.

             3. Carefully monitor the activities that your child plans to participate in before and after the prom.  In past years, the Peer Leaders sponsored an After-The-Prom party.  Attendance at this event has decreased each of the past several  years.  The students were polled this year and their interest in a similar event was minimal.  Therefore, there is no formal After-The-Prom party planned for this year.  Please help your child plan an after the prom activity where they will be safe..

             Let’s promote an alcohol and drug-free environment as a year-round plan, as much of our country is doing.  Some students may be angered by alcohol and drug-free events.  However, I believe the majority of students will understand that parents are caring and concerned for their children’s safety.

             I look forward to our end-of-year activities and hope to see many of you at our various upcoming events.  Thank you for your anticipated assistance and cooperation.

                                                                                                        Sincerely,

            

 

                                                                                                        Frank Tolan, Principal

                                                                                                        Pawling Senior High School

 

 

SPRING SPORTS BANQUET

 

             The Winter and Spring Sports Banquet will be held at the Trinity Pawling Dining Room on Monday, June 13, 2005. Please mark your calendars.  Details will follow.