School officials explain why PNG’s prom had to be canceled

Published 12:12 pm Thursday, July 2, 2020

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PORT NECHES — Port Neches-Groves ISD attempted to give Class of 2020 seniors one last high school memory.

A Roaring 20’s themed prom night was originally scheduled for July 18.

Due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases in Jefferson County and statewide restrictions on gatherings, district officials were forced to finally pull the plug on the extravaganza.

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A released statement on the high school’s Facebook page resonated disappointment, but understanding on the need to cancel.

“The safety of our students is of the utmost priority, and it would be unwise to hold out hope for better circumstances,” it read. “This decision was difficult, but ultimately, for the best.

“We’d like to thank our community for helping to give our Class of 2020 seniors a spectacular end to an unfortunate school year and we look forward to a return to normalcy for the Class of 2021.”

Principal Dr. Scott Ryan shared his condolences in the loss of another senior tradition.

“With the statewide restrictions on gatherings over 100 people, there was just no way that we can have it and be within compliance,” he said.

“After talking to officials, I don’t see that being lifted soon before school starts. We tried to do everything we could to give them back what they lost, but they will always be in our hearts. We appreciate everything they meant to our school and community.”