Published July 31, 2020

MELROSE — Research has shown that the time surrounding Prom and Graduation is the most dangerous time in a teenager’s life. According to recent statistics from the National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration, one in three children under age 21 who died in alcohol-related accidents died during prom and graduation season.

Melrose Grad Night was established in 2013 by a city-wide collaboration of public health and school officials, parents and other community members committed to reversing that statistic.

Melrose Grad Night is a substance free, fully chaperoned, celebration for Melrose High School seniors. For the past six years, it has been an all night event, held inside of MVMMS. This year, due to the COVID 19 crisis, an indoor event is not possible. But we know that despite COVID 19, some new grads would still engage in dangerous substance use behaviors, which also increases the possibility of behaviors that put that put them at risk of contracting COVID 19.

Since the objective of Melrose Grad Night is to keep kids safe on a risky night, the MGN team, in cooperation with the Mayor’s Office, the Melrose Health Department, Melrose Public Schools, DPW, Park Department and Melrose Police Department will sponsor an outdoor graduation celebration. It will be held on the MVMMS/MHS campus from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Friday August 7, following the Class of 2020’s graduation ceremony at Fred Green Field..

The MGN team has been guided by the Health Department and will take COVID 19 precautions very seriously. New grads will observe social distancing and wear masks/faces coverings, except when eating. The grads will enjoy a performance by a Magician/Mentalist, view a slideshow and tributes from MHS staff. Light snacks will be available, and the night will also feature past Grad Night favorite “Big Screen Bingo.” Additionally, each grad will have the opportunity to win raffle prizes such as electronics, gift cards and cash.

There is no entrance fee to Melrose Grad Night. This event will be funded exclusively by private donations from individuals and businesses. While MGN partners with the Mayor’s Office, and other City Departments, MGN is a 501(c) 3 non-profit and the all volunteer board is fully responsible for raising funds for the Grad Night celebration. The MGN team is very grateful for the support of Mayor Brodeur, Health Director Ruth Clay and the other City Departments. Grad Night would not happen without their cooperation.