After A Year Of Derailed Plans, Prom On Again For Local Students

MATTITUCK, NY — After a year of dreams derailed due to the coronavirus, Mattituck junior and senior high school students can once again look forward to going to the prom.

Both junior and senior prom will be held; since the junior prom was canceled last year due to the pandemic, it was decided to host a senior prom this year so the Class of 2021 could have a memorable experience – both proms will be held at Giorgio’s in Baiting Hollow, the district said.

The PTSA donated a booking they had reserved for their annual fashion show so that the senior prom can be held on Thursday, April 22. The morning after the senior prom, there will be a breakfast for the seniors hosted by Ammirati's of Love Lane. The junior class will celebrate with their own prom on Thursday, May 27, the district said.

“We know how important the junior and senior proms are to our students,” said Mattituck High School Principal Shawn Petretti. “Thanks to the PTSA for their support."

Before and during both proms, all COVID-19 health and safety protocols will be strictly enforced to ensure everyone can enjoy the events in a safe environment. Mandatory COVID-19 testing three days in advance of each prom and temperature checks before boarding buses will be required for all those attending both proms. As per Centers for Disease Control guidelines, there will be a DJ and appropriate social distancing dancing will be permitted. During the senior prom, seniors will also have an opportunity to play games and win prizes, the district said.

And, to ensure girls have the dress of their dreams, Beacheeky, located in the Feather Hill shopping plaza on Main Road in Southold, carries gowns, with select styles and sizes available. In addition, a dress giveaway sponsored by an "angel donor" to help someone in need, will be held, with criteria to be announced on Beacheeky's Facebook and Instagram pages.

"With all of the challenges these students have overcome this past year, they deserve a prom to be remembered," said Catherine Earl, owner of Beacheeky. "Not to minimize postponed weddings, anniversary, retirements or any other celebrations, but last year's graduates had to completely forgo their proms —and I would be so sorry to see that happen to another class. I have a few girls who work for me that either graduated last year or are seniors this year and I see how hard they work for their grades, sports, and here at the store. They deserve this! Prom is a celebration with friends that you’ve grown up with, met so many milestones with — and should be an event to remember."