Teens Urged To Avoid Alcohol, Drugs At Prom By Solon Schools

SOLON, OH — The Solon Schools and PTA are urging students and parents to have a safe and sober prom and graduation. To that end, the PTA has planned a big after-prom send-off for seniors.

Solon's Senior Prom will be held May 19. Commencement will be held May 31.

School officials noted that Ohio's underage drinking laws include penalties for adults who allow drinking on their property, or property they're in charge of. That law extends to private homes, as well as hotels, motels, campgrounds, cabins and other public places, according to the Department of Safety Ohio Investigative Unit.

It's illegal to provide alcohol to an underage child and their friend, even if the goal is to provide a "safe" environment. Adults convicted of providing alcohol to someone under 21 could face six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.

"Anyone under 21 who is caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration of .02 percent or higher, a level that is possible after just one or two drinks, can be arrested. Driving under the influence is punishable by a fine and suspension of a driver’s license for at least 90 days and up to a maximum of two years, plus four points added to a driving record," school officials said in an email.

To help provide an actual safe place for students to party after-prom, the Solon High School PTA stages a themed After-Prom event that starts immediately after the dance. This year's event will be held at Solon High School and the theme is "Where Does Your Map Lead" with island-themed decorations, games, music, food, dancing and a treasure hunt planned.

The public is invited to check out the Senior Send-Off decorations prior to the event on May 19. The open house could be fun for families with young children. The open house will start at 5:30 p.m. and end at 7:30 p.m.

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