Many area students have already graduated and Austin graduations at the high school and Pacelli will be held this week.

It's a time to celebrate students' accomplishments in their school career.

Part of the celebration for some students, unfortunately, involves alcohol. Underage drinking is common at "senior parties," which can lead to other risky behavior.

We commend those schools that sponsor after-graduation parties to discourage students from attending private gatherings involving alcohol.

Although not all students will participate, they offer a safe celebratory option for our area's high school graduates.