Project Graduation: A New Tradition at Coginchaug

A new tradition will begin on the final day of school at Coginchaug Regional High School.

On Friday, a "Send Off" celebration will be held before students board buses to Project Graduation, which is being held this year at Lake Quassapaug in Middlebury, CT.

"We do not need parents to volunteer anymore because we've changed locations, so we're inviting them to come out to wish the seniors good luck and cheer them on," said Elizabeth Shoudy of Region 13.

The celebration begins at 10:15 p.m. on Friday, in Coginchaug's courtyard.

In previous years, Project Graduation was held at Wesleyan University, but Shoudy said the Project Graduation Committee - which is made up of parent volunteers - looked at over 15 venues this year before deciding on a new venue.

"They provide everything. There will be a DJ, fortune telling, of course food." Shoudy said. "Usually most of the kids participate and we expect the same this year."

Project Graduation will also feature live entertainment and prizes.

Now in its 20th year, Project Graduation provides students with a substance-free, safe environment to celebrate graduation and spend one final night together as a class.

To raise money for the event volunteers held fundraisers throughout the year, which included a hypnotist, a car wash and a Mother’s Day plant sale. The group also received donations from parents and community sponsors.

All members of the community are invited to the send off ceremony.

Coginchaug Regional High School graduation will be held Friday, at 7 p.m. at the high school.