With the end of the school year drawing closer, the PTO prepares for its annually Gradfest, an event where seniors can come to say their goodbyes to their fellow classmates.

Becky Barker, PTO president said, “The prizes come from a variety of places. Through fundraising (the) PTO gives Gradfest (volunteers) $2,000 to spend as they see fit.” This money combined with donations the families of the seniors provide, help pay for the various prizes students can win.

 PTO volunteer chairperson Kimberly Paarlberg said, “The volunteers for Gradfest work all year organizing and buying prizes for the party. They all work hard so the students can have a good time.”

Barker said, “Some of the items are bed sheets, comforters, iPads, iPods, fans, small refrigerators, microwaves, picture frames and many, many other things that will make their lives a little bit easier when heading off to college.”

According to Barker, the Gradfest committee receives several donations from the community and has many volunteers to put the whole event together.

Barker said, “The money received from these family donations goes towards gifts and refreshments for the evening.”