An Amazing Time At Mainland’s After Prom
By Tammy Thornton
Mainland Regional High School students kicked off their high heels, sequined gowns, and stylish tuxedos and headed to After Prom, Saturday, June 1st. This year’s theme, “The Amazing Race”, was a feast for the eyes and took students to various countries throughout the world, all within the unrecognizable halls of their own school. Each corridor led them to a new, creatively displayed country, eventually taking them to their gymnasium where students could play games and win prizes.
Parents and volunteers work tirelessly beginning in July and throughout the school year planning the event and hand-painting decorations. Dedicated parents stay up through the night to run the games and stations at the event.
After Prom is in its 26th year, providing students with a fun-filled, drug and alcohol-free night that lasts from 11 p.m. – 4 a.m. Students willingly get involved with playing games, knowing the payoffs are huge. This year’s prizes included: a surfboard, GoPro, Twenty One Pilots tickets, Shawn Mendes tickets, and a football signed by Eagles defensive end, Brandon Graham.
In addition to games, students could attempt to ride a mechanical bull, grab money in the money machine, visit the hypnotist or masseuse, or play team laser tag—all while rocking out to the tunes of the “Isn’t It Always” band. Food was served in “England” (their former cafeteria transformed into a red and black British Caff) complete with Big Ben, a classic red telephone box, and the Queen’s Guard.
Donations from the community and local businesses are invaluable to the success of the After Prom.
Food, prizes, and supplies come in all different forms to make it a safe, fun memory for students. Chairperson Danielle Kelly and her husband Ken Kelly have worked tirelessly with friends Sharon Ianoale and Mary Sundra for over 12 years on After Prom, and are grateful for the countless volunteers that work alongside of them. The group will barely take a break before reconvening in July to begin preparing for the 2020 After Prom. If you would like to be part of this community effort, email: mrhsafterprom@comcast.net for more information.
Tammy Thornton is a mom of four, a substitute teacher, and a Sunday school teacher. She is passionate about gardening and cooking, and loves the beach.
