Sean Zhang/staff reporter

After two years absence due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Aftergrad party is coming back on June 17 at 11:30 pm to June 18 – 3 pm at Gleneagle.

As the last event for all the grade 12, there will be games, a hypnotist, a DJ, and prizes including cash according to Kelly Zimmer, vice principal.

“The tickets are selling at a record pace and it promises to be a wonderful event,” said Zimmer.

This event is a parent run committee and school staff are not involved. Parents volunteered to take charge of everything of this event, including decoration, purchasing foods and beverages, and setting up the schedule. The administration will be there, yet parents will run the event all night.

“I’ll definitely go for it as this may be the last chance that I can meet so many people in my high school where I spent my most precious time in my life at. It is my first time, the last time, and the only time to do so,” said Hongming Huang, grade 12. “And I’m really thankful for the parents who were willing to devote their own time for us to manage this amazing event.”

Compared to the challenging experience for the grads of 2020 and 2021, it is appreciated for grads to celebrate in the way they are familiar with, according to Zimmer.

“I’d like to bid the best farewell to my high school life through this event,” said Sharif Hebrahim, grade 12. “I’m looking forward to hearing the announcement of the end of this final event on the night of June 18, that’s the end of my youth as well.”

“Students are giving back more than ever, and many of them talk about what is really important to them – and of course, family and friends are always top of their list.  So this year I see and sense a lot of hope from the Grads – while the world has changed – they are persistent, resilient and they will be successful!” concluded Zimmer.