student in the classroom looking at a smart board

Prom is one of the significant events many seniors look forward to, and students in GCISD’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) Hospitality Service program have a special part to play in this year's event. Six students in GCISD’S Career and Technical Education (CTE) Hospitality Management class are working together to plan a night to remember.

They have worked with the City of Grapevine, local businesses and experienced professionals to learn how to throw an event of this magnitude. Throughout the process, they learned how to read a contract, set a budget for a large event, contact vendors and sharpen their customer service skills.

“Planning an event is a lifelong skill that every student could use in the future. It also helps them realize the costs of events and what is put into the process of planning a large event,” said Kate Burkhart, Hospitality and Tourism Educator.

All of the students involved in the class will be graduating with an industry endorsement and as pathway completers in Hospitality and Tourism. They will also have the Certified Hospitality and Tourism Management Professional (CHTMP) certification from American Hotel & Lodging Education Institute (AHLEI). Not only is this a fun way to be involved with their own senior prom, but these experiences and certifications will help the students be ready for their careers in hospitality.

Burkart added, “This is a great resume builder for college and the real world. They will be able to be knowledgeable with industry standards, workplace standards, boost their communication skills with industry professionals and the importance of work ethic.”

*The program is always accepting donations for party supplies and they love to partner with local businesses and organizations.