SANDPOINT — The Sandpoint High School Grad Night Parent Committee is hoping to raise $70,000 for this year’s senior celebration, the committee announced last week. 

The annual event, which will be themed as a summer getaway this year, seeks to provide graduating seniors with a memorable and safe place to be on the night of their graduation. President of the committee, Justin Kropf, said the Grad Night is a special event that reminds him why he moved to Sandpoint. 

“Grad Night is something I wish had been around when I graduated,” Kropf said. “This fully volunteer and donation-based organization uses every dollar donated to make this night epic for our seniors. Our hope is that as these seniors graduate, they will share stories of this epic occasion with the underclassmen to keep the energy of this event alive.” 

In the release, the committee said there are around 260 graduating seniors from SHS this year, meaning they will need around $270 per student to reach their goal. The committee said that each attendee will receive a personalized gift that ranges from laptops to e-bikes and even kayaks. 

During the event, students are “locked-in” a large room packed with entertainment and activities for them to enjoy together overnight. Erika Bates, advisor for the committee, said that the drug- and alcohol-free celebration gives students a place to celebrate together in their hometown for what could be the final time. 

Kropf said that the community rallying together makes the event possible and noted that the committee is seeking partnerships with local businesses and donations for the senior gifts and raffle items. 

“This event is more than putting on the biggest celebration our seniors have ever seen, which in and of itself, is incredible,” Erika Bates, advisor for the committee, said. “Grad Night is our first opportunity to show the next generation of community members that Sandpoint cares, Sandpoint sees you, and Bonner County supports you.” 

In previous years, students have enjoyed a myriad of activities ranging from a 20x40 foot faux casino to a mechanical bull. Volunteers and the committee work together on the night to put together a one-of-a-kind experience for students who choose to attend.  

“The success of Grad Night is truly a reflection of the Sandpoint community coming together to support our students,” Kropf said. “Sandpoint has an amazing culture, and I believe this event, celebrating our seniors, exemplifies that culture. Help us rally around them and create a very special night they will remember for the rest of their lives!” 

The committee hopes to have all donations committed by April 5 and has already planned several upcoming fundraising events alongside local businesses. The first of the fundraisers will take place at Connie’s Cafe and Lounge from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on April 13. 

Those interested in learning more or partnering with the committee can contact them by e-mailing the group at [email protected]. 

    Students at a former Grad-Night event paint as a part of the festivities.
  

    A picture of a custom build casino for a previous SHS Grad-Night event.