The concession stand is more than just a place to buy snacks at a school event; it brings students, families, and fans together. From popcorn and candy to cold drinks, concessions help keep the energy high during games and performances. Most importantly, they financially support school programs while creating a fun experience everyone looks forward to.

Beyond fundraising, the concession stand creates a sense of community at school events. With the help of the GCHS Boosters, parents and students run the Grayslake Central concession stand. ”I enjoy the interaction with the students as well as meeting new parents that are also volunteering,” said Katie Smith, a GCHS Boosters volunteer.

The school tends to get many athletes’ parents volunteering their weekends and even their evenings after work to help the school. Smith said she likes working at the concession stand. “I enjoy it a lot actually. I usually run the cash register, it brings me back to my teenage days when I worked retail,” Smith said.

Athletes, students, and families often stop by the concession stand to grab a quick snack during a break in play or half time. It gives them a moment to relax and catch up before the game starts again. “The food is already good I think, I love the chicken wings,” said basketball player and GCHS sophomore Annabelle Appel.

From time to time, you will here requests going around to add new items on the menu. “I would add more energy drinks. Sometimes Bubblr’s aren’t really that good” Appel said.

Smith said “The pizza comes from Domino’s. The popcorn is popped in house. The pretzels are made in the oven and salted in house, as well as the hot dogs and [all] assembled by the volunteers.”

The concession stand is more than just a place to buy snacks; it’s a spot where students, parents, and fans come together.

The teamwork of volunteers and the energy of students  make every event special. Without the Boosters program our school wouldn’t have an amazing place where you can get your favorite foods and drinks during games.