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Carpenter High celebrates 108 grads

Jun 28, 2018 | 4:36 PM

“It’s our last chance to share the stage before we go our separate ways.”

These words were carefully chosen from the popular movie High School Musical, and sung by Carpenter High School (CHS) valedictorian Lara van de Venter as the Grade 12 class went from students to graduates today.

Loved ones of the grads filled the gym at the secondary school today for the celebratory affair. A number of local dignitaries were also in attendance, including Meadow Lake MLA Jeremy Harrison, who is a CHS alumnus, as well as MP Georgina Jollibois. Representatives from a number of community groups also came to present over $24,000 worth of scholarships.

One of the two masters of ceremonies for the day, teacher Dion Petz, said the class of 2018 is a wonderfully unique group of students.

“They’re so proudly multicultural,” Petz said. “They’re so compassionately accepting, and so vocal in fighting for their beliefs. This group reflects the message the world needs at this time. Let people know you’re from Meadow Lake, from Treaty Six territory and traditional land of the Métis.”

From the board of the Northwest School Division, Jessica Piche brought congratulations on behalf of the division. In her address, she asked students to reflect on what they learned from their academic journey.

“Take time to look back over the changes over the last 12 years,” she said. “As you travel through life, remember your past but focus on your future. Graduation is just the beginning of grown up life. Embrace the change, accept the challenges, but most of all, enjoy the journey.”

Melissa Scrivener, a teacher at Jonas Samson Junior High, was the guest speaker. She said she had the distinct pleasure of teaching quite a few of the graduates when they were at the junior high, as she ended up teaching each grade, seven through nine. She had a main message for the students born in a world of technology, selfies, likes and instant messages: Be kind.

“The toughest part about being kind, is that if you do it well and do it often, you won’t get that type of gratification,” Scrivener said. “You will never know the difference it makes, but it changes everything. We’ve all experienced the moments where it made all the difference. So be that person for someone else, because you can.”

 

 

 

 

kathy.gallant@jpbg.ca

On Twitter @ReporterKath