As the year is coming to an end for our beloved seniors, they have much to look forward to as they approach graduation. Among these events is the annual Senior Grad Nite on May 9. It’s an overnight trip to Gurnee where seniors from multiple high schools in the area gather for a night of fun and thrill at Six Flags Great America. The permission form was due April 15 in the Principal’s Office and any senior that has not turned it in by that date will not be able to attend. 

When seniors first arrive at H-F, they will meet in the South Gym where they will be ordained with wristbands that will work as both an entry and lunch ticket. Then, all attendees will be assigned a bus buddy and a staff chaperone to ensure that no student will be left behind. 

While seniors will be assigned a chaperone, once they make the hour and 20-minute bus ride, they will be free to enjoy the park’s amenities with little rules besides basic park conduct, school behavior expectations and site restrictions. They will be free to enjoy the park’s roller coasters and thrill rides such as The Joker and Giant Drop or shop at many of the park’s themed retail stores.

Additionally, if you plan on purchasing merchandise or souvenirs, it would be recommended as Six Flags Great America only accepts valid credit cards or be prepared to convert cash at one of the many kiosks around the park to a prepaid debit card. 

Some seniors have voiced concerns about the event as the weather becomes more and more unpredictable. Senior Grace Morrison has concerns about it being cold since it’s overnight and even rain during the event.

However, it seems like seniors do tend to enjoy the trip overall. Class of 2025 H-F graduate Mauriah Cornelious stated that “the Grad Trip was truly a night to remember! I think everyone should go given the chance! All the seniors from the nearby schools and our school were there just having fun without a care in the world. Even if I went again it wouldn’t be the same because it was so great!”

Thankfully, it seems like our wonderful graduating class has a lot to anticipate as a night of fun, thrills and activities approaches.