For the Wilton High School graduating class of 2014, the fun has begun as their school days wind down and festivities and ceremonies ramp up.

Seniors will get their first PGP (Post Graduation Party) teaser beginning May 15 when PGP clues are posted on Twitter and Facebook–and here on GOOD Morning Wilton–a change from past years when they were seen on sandwich boards around town. The clues will be posted on the social media sites and on GMW.com and seniors have to guess where they’re from and then visit the location to pick up further clues. The final clue will be given on June 3 when seniors gather for the annual picnic at which they also receive yearbooks.

PGP is the annual surprise graduation party organized by the parents of Wilton’s high school seniors–and it’s for all graduating seniors, even those who attended schools other than WHS. It’s a tradition that was started after the 1983 drunk-driving death of a Ridgefield High School senior on commencement night, so that graduates can have a safe, alcohol- and drug-free environment to celebrate together.

This year’s PGP is being co-chaired by Amy Burke and Jayne Sullivan (pictured above), assisted by a dedicated board that has spent countless hours planning a magical evening for the students. PGP will take place on Saturday, June 21 at Middlebrook School. Typically 100 percent of graduating seniors will attend the alcohol-free, drug-free event.

Traditionally, parents surprise the graduates with the theme, something that’s kept secret until the very last moment. It’s an all-night party with games, dancing, music, food and prizes.   

The party is the last event in a series of unifying social and fundraising activities that the class’ families have taken part in since seventh grade. Dubbed “The Projects,” each class has a committee of organizing parents who schedule events for the kids (dances, trips, parties and philanthropy outreach) as well as for the parents. Much of it is geared toward raising the money needed to produce the grand finale PGP following graduation. Many local Wilton businesses donate items that are given away as prizes throughout the evening as well.

The actual party in June takes over Middlebrook, and an enormous team of 100-plus volunteer parents work throughout the year leading up to the party to build sets, props, decorations and even temporary walls. The school is transformed, with many students in past years saying it’s almost unrecognizable and they find themselves ‘transported,’ as a great way to celebrate their achievements one final time as a complete class and to kick off the next phase of their lives.

Don’t forget to check back tomorrow, May 15, as well as in the weeks leading up to PGP for more clues for the class of 2014.