PORTSMOUTH — When Portsmouth High School seniors enjoy the fun and safety of their “Post Prom” on June 5, they’ll have some youngsters half their size to thank for helping to make the party a reality.

The “graduating class” at the Portsmouth Nursery School (PNS) raised $270 toward the event, which runs from 11 p.m. on Wednesday, June 5, to 2 a.m. on Thursday, June 6, at the PHS Field House.

On Monday morning, a fire truck and police car arrived at PNS as a prize for Kaya Whipple and Henry McGuire, whose parents won a silent auction as part of the fund-raiser. (The fire truck had to leave early, however, because it was called to an accident.)

As an added surprise, eight PHS seniors who graduated from the nursery school in 2011 stopped by to tour their old school and pose with the 5-year-old students and faculty. 

“They’'re all wearing their college sweatshirts, because we want to inspire this class of 2037,” said Carolin Dooley, a teacher’s aide at PNS. 

Post Prom has been taking place since 1997, and traditionally more than 95 percent of the senior class participates. All PHS seniors — regardless of whether their attend prom — and their dates are welcome to attend the event, which features an evening of events, games, music, refreshments and prizes.

Donations still needed

The nonprofit Parents Helping Students Organization (PHSO) at Portsmouth High School is in the final stages of fund-raising for Post Prom, and is at about 65 percent of its goal.

All donations will be used to purchase door prizes, raffle items, provide entertainment, and supplies necessary to provide seniors with a safe night filled with fun.

So far the Post Prom fund-raising committee, of which Dooley is a member, has raised $17,000 toward the event. However, the cost of the entertainment, prizes, food and more for the party is about $103 per student, she said, so more donations are welcome.

Checks can be made payable to PHSO (write “Post Prom” in the memo line) and mailed to treasurer Kim Phelan, 45 Grain Terrace, Portsmouth. 

You can also send a donation through Venmo at @PHSO-PHS. All contributions are tax deductible. 

If you have any questions, or merchandise or a service to donate, e-mail amytcfc@yahoo.com, or contact Amy Tobin at 401/297-6598.