Quantcast

The DNAinfo archives brought to you by WNYC.
Read the press release here.

Not Even Prom Is Safe From CPS Budget Cuts — But You Can Help

By Patty Wetli | March 18, 2016 8:17am
 Amundsen H.S. usually rewards students with raffle prizes for prom, but can't afford them this year.
Amundsen H.S. usually rewards students with raffle prizes for prom, but can't afford them this year.
View Full Caption
Shutterstock

LINCOLN SQUARE — When CPS told principals they wouldn't be allowed to spend money in their accounts — funds many had purposely squirreled away in anticipation of budget cuts — schools were left scrambling to pay for copy paper, supplies and even prom.

In a tradition begun by principal Anna Pavichevich, seniors at Amundsen High School who had upheld the standards of being accountable, honorable and scholarly were entered every year in a prize raffle to help with the expenses of prom and graduation.

"Given our current dire financial situation after this last request to leave $110,250 'on the table,' we no longer can support these important incentives for students," Pavichevich posted to Facebook.

The school's supporters immediately chimed in with offers to spring for manicures, hair salons and tuxedo rentals.

"Is a Visa gift card OK?" one neighbor asked.

"A Visa gift card is like the Holy Grail!" Pavichevich responded.

A 2015 survey pegged the average cost of prom at $919, pricing many students out of this rite of passage.

"Students really run out of money during prom/graduation season," Pavichevich said.

Anyone interested in donating to the raffle can drop off gift certificates or gift cards by May 20 at Amundsen's main office, 5110 N. Damen Ave. Place items in an envelope addressed to Principal Pavichevich. You can also email Pavichevich at apavichevich@cps.edu. 

For more neighborhood news, listen to DNAinfo Radio here: