A group of senior Panthers are rallying together after PECI’s Principal Kim Myderwyk informed them that the school would not be hosting a Senior Prom.

In a letter to parents Oct. 17, Ms. Myderwyk said, “the decision comes in response to liability implications that have become more prominent in recent years.”

“Organizing and overseeing a prom presents unique challenges in ensuring student safety and well-being, many of which are beyond the direct scope…of the school staff. There are also important legal and liability considerations….Hosting large-scale events like prom increases the school’s…risk exposure, particularly in areas such as student supervision and safety.” 

The Principal added a majority of schools across eastern Ontario have moved away from school-sanctioned events over the past 10 years.

“It is important to note that this decision is in no way related to any specific group of students, nor to any incidents that have occurred at previous PECI proms,” Ms. Myderwyk told the Gazette. “Our Panthers are an incredible group, most of whom have expressed their excitement at having the opportunity to plan and organize a prom that is meaningful to, and truly reflective of, their graduating class. We are pleased to support them in this transition to a student-organized prom.”

Late Notice

PECI parent Brianna Warrhunter was one of the first to learn of the administration’s decision. She took to social media to inform others that PECI students would need to organize their own celebration. She called on fellow parents and local businesses to be ready when graduating Panthers ask for support.

So far, student leaders are adamant Prom 2025 is theirs to arrange, and are canvassing their 70 classmates about potential locations and dates. When final decisions are made, Ms. Warrhunter said, parents are ready to assist.

While the decision came on PECI letterhead, Eastside Secondary in Belleville issued a similar notice at the same time. Ms. Warrhunter noted parents and students could have been told much earlier that Prom 2024 would be the school’s last official hurrah.

“It’s getting piled onto Grade 12 students who are finishing up their community hours, applying to post secondary programs, and working part time jobs. It would have been easier to let them know in May. They would have had all summer to think about it,” she said.