By Chris Grev

Austin Public Schools Project Graduation Volunteer

Remember your final weeks as a high school senior? All that was ahead, all you had left to do? Many things about high school have changed over the years but not the feelings and anticipation of finishing high school. Austin High School seniors are putting the final touches on their high school careers and getting ready to start a new chapter in their lives.

Project Graduation will cap off their time as students of Austin High. Every year volunteers, mainly parents, put on one of the most anticipated events of the year. This tradition dates back 20 years or more and provides a safe, alcohol and drug free environment to celebrate.

It’s a big event that takes many volunteer hours and effort. As a past volunteer (I get the year off because I have a graduating senior) it is an incredibly fun event to be a part of. I cannot imagine how fun it is to experience as a graduate. The gyms, classrooms and even Knowlton Auditorium will be transformed into various rooms with numerous activities, games, food and fun for all attending.

“It’s amazing what we can do with some curtains, poles and the creative skills of our volunteers,” said Annette Mueller, Co-Chair of Project Graduation 2012. “One of the best parts of the evening is seeing the kids’ reactions to everything going on. It’s really pretty amazing.”

This year students will also have the opportunity to give back to the community through a Community Service Project.

“We have a very generous community and our students recognize that,” Mueller said. “This project is a great addition to the night, giving each attendee the chance to do something for others.”

The party begins immediately after commencement and continues until the wee hours of the morning.

“Project Graduation is a community event. Students from AHS, Pacelli and homeschooled graduates are invited,” said Diane Baker, 2012 Co-Chair. “We are always looking for volunteers, too. This is not limited to just parents of AHS.”

Students can get tickets for the event at the AHS cashier’s office for $50 from May 7 to June 8 and at the door the night of the event for $60. The price of the ticket includes all activities, games, food, beverages and entertainment. Graduates also have the opportunity to win great prizes and everyone leaves with a gift.

On behalf of the entire Project Graduation Committee, I would like to thank the Austin business community for their generous donations to this project. From cash donations to prizes, we sincerely appreciate all the support you have shown for this event over the years. If you would like to get involved or make a donation, please contact Annette at 507-433-5059.

Congratulations to the class of 2012 and special thanks to everyone who is a part of providing this safe and memorable experience for our graduates.