Del Norte, Rancho Bernardo Grad Nites need donations

Additional funds are needed to make the Grad Nite celebrations at Rancho Bernardo and Del Norte high schools memorable for all graduating seniors who want to attend.

Organizers of both June 9 celebrations are accepting donations through May to sponsor graduates who cannot afford to purchase the all-night party ticket. Grad Nite is a way for graduates to celebrate their accomplishment in an alcohol- and drug-free environment. Students — typically a couple dozen or so — can request ticket assistance through their campuses’ Student Services offices.

Brandi Louis, Del Norte’s Grad Nite chairwoman, said some students do not to attend because they are embarrassed to request a free ticket and due to all costs associated with senior year and college cannot afford one. She said they should ask because there is anonymity — only school officials know their identity, not Grad Nite parents.

For those purchasing Grad Nite tickets, they are $100 now ($125 closer to graduation) for RB High and $150 now for Del Norte High.

Both campuses also need donations so there is enough food, beverages and prizes for the hundreds of graduates at each party. This year Del Norte has 507 seniors and Rancho Bernardo has 548 seniors.

Del Norte parents are planning a “Racing to the Finish” party at Miramar Speed Circuit, while RB parents are planning a Hawaiian themed party in RB High’s gym.

To donate to Del Norte’s party, go to tinyurl.com/DNGradNite16. Options include sponsoring a student ($125), party activity ($100 to $800) or miscellaneous donation. For questions, contact Louis at brandi32671@hotmail.com.

To donate to RB’s party, go to tinyurl.com/RBGradNite16. Options include sponsoring a student ($80), food ($25), entertainment ($50) or being a higher-level donor. For questions, send an email to rbgradnite@gmail.com.