Riverhead High School, Community Partners Prepare Students and Families for Safe and Fun Prom and Graduation

RIVERHEAD, NEW YORK—As excitement built for Riverhead High School’s senior prom, the Riverhead Central School District partnered with Riverhead Community Awareness Program, Inc. (CAP), Peconic Bay Medical Center (PBMC), and the Riverhead Police Department for its annual pre-prom safety meetings to prepare students and families for the night of festivities. Since 2017, the coalition has worked together to encourage safe celebrations during prom, as well as the greater graduation season, by informing Riverhead students and families of the health implications and legal consequences of underage drinking and drug use.

“Parents play an integral role in whether or not young people decide to drink alcohol or use drugs,” said Cynthia Redmond, Riverhead CAP prevention supervisor and community prevention specialist. “Parents who have ongoing conversations about youth substance use, set clear expectations, and model the behavior they wish to see are more likely to have children who resist the pressure to use alcohol or do drugs.”

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In order to purchase prom tickets, students and their parents or guardians were required to attend one of two meetings, which were held on May 21 and May 27. The district and its community partners welcomed 514 students, parents, and guardians for these crucial sessions supporting healthy decision making and aiming to prevent youth substance use during this celebratory season. With the financial support of PBMC and Riverhead CAP, each student in attendance received a gift bag, and two free prom tickets were raffled off at each meeting.

“Prom and graduation season should be remembered for joy, celebration, and the milestones our students have worked so hard to reach,” said Dr. Ninfa Mehta, MD, MPH, chair of emergency medicine at Peconic Bay Medical Center. “In the emergency department, we understand how quickly one decision can change the course of a night, which is why these conversations are so important. By speaking directly with students and families about substance use, safety, and what to do in a medical emergency, we can help them feel prepared to make choices that protect themselves and one another.”

Riverhead Police Department sergeant James Welsh and sergeant Giuseppe Rosini informed attendees of the legal consequences of underage drinking and drug use, including the penalties for possessing and using fake IDs and for driving while intoxicated, especially zero-tolerance laws and Leandra’s Law. The officers also addressed the Suffolk Social Host Law and the criminal and civil penalties for adults allowing underage drinking and substance use. Adults who knowingly allow underage drinking can be charged with a misdemeanor and face penalties that can include fines and/or jail time.

Dr. Megan Katherine Slowey, DO, an emergency medicine at Peconic Bay Medical Center, discussed the health implications of underage drinking, marijuana use, and fentanyl use. Alongside Sgt. Welsh and Sgt. Rosini, she emphasized the protections people have under the Good Samaritan Law and encouraged students to call for help if they witness someone experiencing a medical emergency related to substance use.

“Honest, age-appropriate education can make a meaningful difference in how students respond to pressure, uncertainty, or an emergency,” said Dr. Slowey. “Our goal is to give students the information they need to protect their health, look out for their friends, and know when to seek help so that they can enjoy the excitement of prom and graduation with tools in their back pockets in case of an emergency. These meetings are an important reminder that safety is something we prepare for together.”

Senior class advisor Caitlyn Talmage reviewed the prom contract, the process for purchasing tickets, and reminded students that anyone suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be permitted to enter the prom.

“As a hospital rooted in this community, our responsibility extends beyond the walls of our medical center," said Dr. Amy Loeb, EdD, MBA, RN, president of Peconic Bay Medical Center. “It includes helping young people and their families feel informed, supported, and safe as they celebrate these important milestones. Peconic Bay Medical Center is proud to continue its partnership with Riverhead Central School District, Riverhead CAP, and the Riverhead Police Department to support students during such an exciting and meaningful time in their lives."

For more information about the Riverhead Central School District, please visit the district’s website at www.riverhead.net. Happenings in the district can also be followed on Facebook at www.facebook.com/riverheadCSD. #BlueWavesPride.