“For these students, high school is ending, but their life is just beginning,” said principal Mark Crozier during the graduation ceremony. “It is my hope that these learners will keep learning.”
The perk of a small graduation class meant that there was time during the ceremony to specifically acknowledge each student. A slideshow filled with photos from the graduates’ younger years was even shown.
Before diplomas were awarded, each graduate was introduced with a brief paragraph outlining his or her school memories and future aspirations.
Most of the students’ memories involved sustainability class trips with teacher Adam Robb, and many also warned younger grades that correspondence courses are a lot of work.
“There were definitely some ups and downs, but I’ll take away many memories,” said valedictorian Cameron Mahler.
While preparing he speech, he joked that “like any good high school student, I Googled ‘valedictorian speeches.’”
Town councillor Mike Day noted that he was especially proud because his son, River, was among the graduates.
“Appreciate what life has to offer and let others know you appreciate them,” he told the class. He added with candor, “of course, being on top of the world means that you only have one direction to go.”
Life’s ups and downs make the journey worthwhile and shape our character, he said.
Countless people, whether it’s parents, teachers, coaches or community members, have helped the graduates through their journey, said student emcee Rachel Merilovich. “Without your constant encouragement I’m sure we would not be here today.”
School trustee Betsy DeClerq said the students are always welcome to come back and visit, especially when the new joint school facility is built.
“Your grad pictures will be hanging on those freshly painted walls, waiting for you to find them.”
After a weekend of smiles, caps, gowns, dresses, suits and a bombardment of flash photography, the JHS class of 2013 will now look to the future and its endless possibilities.
Mahler offered perhaps the best advice to his fellow classmates, when he said, “know your limits and work just outside them.”
脡cole Desrochers will celebrate its graduating class on Thursday, June 27.
