After four long years of high school, Mclean seniors will get to experience one final night at the school during the All Night Grad Party (ANGP). The celebration is one of the many experiences for students planned by the school’s Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA).

“A committee of dedicated parents spends the year fundraising and selecting the entertainment, activities and refreshments for the event,” ANGP coordinator Pamela Williams said.

The ANGP takes months of preparation—the committee must find entertainment and activities that fit their budget and simultaneously appeal to the seniors.

“The grad party is a really cool idea, and I’m excited to see all the activities that they have throughout the night,” senior Elizabeth Weber said.

ANGP is a highly anticipated event during the school year due to its benefits to the McLean community. Students are able to have fun at a graduation party while avoiding any dangers associated with alcohol or drug use.

“Providing such an alternative [to other parties] is crucial to [student] safety, as the Virginia Department of Education calls graduation night one of the highest risk nights of a student’s life for an alcohol or drug-related tragedy,” Williams said.

The ANGP is a McLean tradition, and it will continue to thrive due to its significance and fun atmosphere.

“Through the collective efforts of the PTSA, vendors, and the parent volunteers, we will provide our graduating class with a fun and alcohol and drug-free environment,” Williams said. “[We can’t wait] to celebrate one last time as a class.”