re: Dad needs help investing a high school graduation gift.

I second the other guy's recommendation: The most powerful thing you can do at that kid's age is to take advantage of the low tax bracket if they have income.

Put it in a Roth (They can take back out what they put back in at no penalty as long as they don't touch growth, but I'd strongly not recommend it in this case due to the tax advantage)

VGSTX through vanguard is a good, low balance fund/starter portfolio.