help high school seniors pay off school debts
Donation protected
Only a few days ago, my friends and I were notified that in order to walk at graduation and receive our caps and gowns, we had to have fully payed off the debts we owed to the school. These fees have piled up since as far back as middle school, anywhere from $6- $700. Graduating high school is such a huge milestone in someone’s life, and deserves to be celebrated. There are kids that have worked hard all year long, and faced many obstacles that were amplified by COVID-19. Many of the challenges families faced involved dramatic financial losses, and many are still trying to get back on their feet. These high school debts, which haven’t been acknowledged until recently (this past week), add to the stress many families already endure. Though the school does their best to help the students, these debts should not be the deciding factor as to whether or not someone gets to attend graduation. All donations will be sent directly to South Portland High School and updates will be posted.
***UPDATE***
We have since talked to the principal about this fundraiser. Ms. Laforge guarantees that no matter how much is owed, students WILL still be able to graduate/ attend and walk at graduation. This was not obvious to us, and many others when being denied our caps and gowns due to these fees. Regardless, these fees cause students and families immense amounts of stress during a time meant for celebration.
***UPDATE***
We have since talked to the principal about this fundraiser. Ms. Laforge guarantees that no matter how much is owed, students WILL still be able to graduate/ attend and walk at graduation. This was not obvious to us, and many others when being denied our caps and gowns due to these fees. Regardless, these fees cause students and families immense amounts of stress during a time meant for celebration.
Organizer and beneficiary
Zoe Collins
Organizer
South Portland, ME
Sheryl Kieran
Beneficiary