Teens want proms and parties, despite drawbacks

Kellenberg Memorial High, a Catholic high school on Long Island, will no longer host a senior prom because it has become too expensive and because after-prom parties often involve alcohol and sex, aspects that are contrary to Christian values. The Evangelist asked a group of teens at the youth rally in Greenville (see photos above) this question: "Do you think the school's decision is a good idea? Why or why not?" Here are their replies:

* Bianca Cancel, a student at Catskill High and a member of St. Patrick's parish in Catskill: "It won't help because if teens [drink or have sex] that one night, they are going to do it again and probably did it before. You can't change what kids choose to do."

* Maille Kate Charbonneau, a student at Windham-Ashland-Jewett Central School and a member of St. Theresa's parish in Windham: "Most prom parties have the same after-party effects. It is hard not to hear of a school that doesn't have parties like this. It is a student decision to participate or not. They should have the party because it could be fun if they have a safe time and stay with Christian values."

* Adam Reese, a student at Cairo-Durham School and a member of Sacred Heart parish in Cairo: "Letting a group of kids ruin it for so many is not fair. They should lock down and make more strict rules. If I didn't have a prom, I would be very upset; a prom is a very important part of childhood."

* Travis Rinaldi, a student at Hunter-Tannersville Central School and a member of Immaculate Conception parish in Haines Falls: "They shouldn't take away the prom just because of the after-party. If they want it bad enough, teens will raise the money" to host it.

* Anthony Parente, a student at Greenville High and a member of St. John the Baptist parish in Greenville: "If you think purely from a Catholic point of view, this is the right decision. However, not hosting a prom will only stop one night of wild parties. This is not the only time when there will be a party involving aspects contrary to Christian values. It is the teens' choice to do something contrary to what their religion tells them. Not having a prom won't solve the problems of parties involving alcohol and sex."

(11/10/05) [[In-content Ad]]