$8,000 to Rent Sun Center for South Brunswick's Steamy Graduation

South Brunswick, NJ - The South Brunswick school district paid $8,000 to rent the Sun National Bank Center for its high school graduation Tuesday, superintendent Dr. Gary McCartney told Patch.

As we reported Tuesday evening, the arena was stifling hot for the commencement ceremony, after an early-morning thunderstorm knocked out the Sun Center's power and HVAC system. Several students had to be escorted out of the ceremony after feeling ill due to the heat, and teachers complained the arena was charging $4.25 for water (which they later gave out for free).

Some parents are now privately suggesting South Brunswick find another arena to host graduation next year. Dr. McCartney said the district would "consider any and all options moving forward."

"The heat was at a level of discomfort, but the day was great, the ceremony dignified and the students were exceptionally well-behaved," said Dr. McCartney Wednesday morning.