The Associated Student Body is seeking $20,000 in donations to provide financial aid for this year’s Prom.

According to senior class president Eli Friedlander, construction on the Palo Alto High School campus significantly reduced ASB income by limiting the number of student parking permits that could be sold.

“$20,000 is just the sum of money that we’ve lost due to various things like loss of parking spots,” Friedlander said.

The money from parking permits is normally allocated to subsidizing Prom for students on a free and reduced lunch plan and to supporting Paly clubs. However, due to the construction of the sports complex and performing arts center, the income received from parking permits during the school year was cut in half.
ASB reached out to all parents of juniors and seniors through an email on Jan. 26 and asked for donations so all students with financial need can have the opportunity to attend prom.

According to student activities director Matt Hall, financial assistance is coordinated by him and the guidance counselors.

“We always say to them [students] ‘Hey, you give us 10 bucks, [and] we’ll give you the rest,’ Hall said. “But if they say ‘I can’t pay a single dollar,’ then we are committed to subsidizing up to 100 percent of the cost,” Hall said.

Donations can be contributed through the Paly webstore or checks dropped off at the Main Office. As of Feb. 3, ASB has received two checks and one digital donation, according to Hall.

“We’re really just trying to raise what we can for those students [who need financial assistance],” Friedlander said.