By Hector Flores
The Central High School District recently unveiled an upgraded prom policy that, as it always has, forbids alcohol consumption before and during the prom. This year, though, the district has put teeth in the policy by laying out several serious consequences if students break the rule. The new policy applies to Calhoun, Kennedy and Mepham high schools.
The district now requires that all students attend a meeting with their parents before the prom. At this session, district administrators review the prom rules -- and the penalties for breaking them.
Calhoun High held its meeting May 24. The Herald did not attend the session, but spoke with parents, students and administrators afterward.
At the meeting, students signed a contract pledging not to drink before or during the prom. Students who show signs of inebriation at the prom will be given Breathalyzer tests. Any student who is caught under the influence of alcohol or other drugs will be denied entrance to or removed from the prom. Parents will be notified, and the student will be sent home at his or her expense. Offending students will also be suspended from school for five days, which would mean they wouldn't be able to graduate with their class.
At the Calhoun meeting, most parents whom the Herald spoke with were pleased by the district's new policy. Chris Deissler of Merrick said, "I think it's great. It will help students make responsible decisions, and enable them to have a safe and fun night."
Deissler added that the contract is unambiguous in letting everyone -- most important, the students -- know what their responsibilities are. "As long as they live up to their duties, they will have a good night," he said.
Phyllis Stumacher, another Merrick parent, also believes the contract is a good idea. "Kids will think twice about drinking before the prom and ruining it for everyone else," she said. "If they want to do something after the prom, parents should provide adequate transportation, but a prom is no place for inappropriate behavior."
Linda, a Calhoun parent who declined to give her last name, said, "I think it is good in some ways, but some kids will do what they want anyway, regardless. It's good that they are trying to promote safety, but it will only work if everyone abides by" the new policy.
Alex, a senior who did not give his last name, said, "This is the first time they have had this meeting, and I don't approve of there being a Breathalyzer. But I will follow the rules because I want to walk in graduation."
Calhoun Principal David Seinfeld insisted that only students who appear under the influence will be tested. "There is some confusion that everyone will be tested, but only those who appear drunk" will be, he said.
Matt Rennert, a Calhoun senior, said, "The new policy doesn't really bother me."
Laura Hladky, another senior, said, "They are just doing this to make sure we don't drink."
Comments about this story? HFlores@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 283.
