Planning Underway for KP Grad Night Party

For close to thirty years, KPHS students have celebrated the end of high school at an all-night party held at the school. The post-graduation, annual event has helped ensure that graduates are kept safe on a night that’s typically worrisome for communities.
This year’s party is planned for the night of June 10, after the school’s graduation ceremonies at Stonehill College.
The KP All Night Party is organized by the King Philip Parent Network (KPPN). The alcohol and substance-free night needs parent and community support, said KPPN president Maureen Lukes. The massive undertaking requires over one hundred parent volunteers to plan, fundraise, and host the party.
“We’re looking for parents of freshmen, sophomores, and juniors to help us,” said Lukes. “As a parent of a senior, it’s great to see how much fun the kids have at the party. But I also think it’s important to have underclass parents ‘pay it forward’ by participating.”
On graduation night, the high school is transformed into an exciting venue complete with entertainment, food, activities, a DJ, dancing, bouncy houses, and other large inflatables. The last few years have also included a petting zoo and a food truck. There will be games and prizes, said Lukes, as well as an air-brush tattoo artist, photo booth, remote car racing, and more. A popular hypnotist show caps off the night.
Check in for the party begins at 10 p.m., and the doors are locked at 11 p.m. Students stay in the school until 5 a.m. the following morning.
Wrentham police and EMTs will also be at the party, noted Lukes.
Parents are needed each year to help with decorating, chaperoning, and cleaning up after the party. The KPPN hosts drop-in decorating nights throughout the spring to get ready for the event.
A ticket to the party costs $55, and financial assistance is available so no graduate has to miss the last night with classmates.
Lukes said some neighboring towns charge $100 or more for their all-night parties.
“A night out on the town, including all the activities we have planned, would cost a student close to $200,” said Lukes. “This is a really good deal.”
Since ticket proceeds don’t cover all the party expenses, the KPPN fundraises throughout the year. Private donations from individuals and businesses help fund the party, too, as well as fund other KPPN events and activities. The group hosts the popular Father Daughter Dance and Staff Appreciation Day, and provides teacher grants and scholarships for graduating seniors.
Multi-tiered levels of sponsorship are available for business owners who wish to advertise with the KP community while supporting the party and other KPPN activities.
According to Lukes, about 90% of all KPHS grads attend the All Night Party.
“Kids hear about this party from their freshmen year and look forward to it,” she said. “And I think this year is shaping up to be the best party ever.”
For more information about the All Night Party, sponsorship opportunities, or to volunteer, contact Lukes at [email protected].