Grads have mixed emotions
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 22/06/2010 (5765 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
On a day when so many words of encouragement and life lessons are shared, retired teacher Blair McLeod asked the graduating class of Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School to remember just one word.
Hope.
"Never lose sight of your dreams," McLeod said. "Never give up hope."
Friends and family gathered at Westman Place Monday afternoon as the school’s 202 graduates received their diplomas.
The hallways of the Keystone Centre echoed with excited chatter as students gathered on their last day all together, donning Crocus burgundy gowns with yellow tassels.
"I’m kind of sad to be done, but I’m really excited to see what’s going to happen next," graduate Brittany Hewlko said.
"Crocus is a very friendly school, and anyone who goes there really fits in. It’s unique that way. I’ll miss that," said Hewlko, who is taking next year off while continuing to figure skate with Skate Brandon.
Valedictorian Katlin Mathison said he was excited to spend the day sharing memories with friends from their time at Crocus.
"Crocus is an amazing place to go to school because there’s so much diversity, but there’s also a unity through that. I’ve been very fortunate to go through here and I’ve had an awesome experience. I’ll miss it," said Mathison, who is planning to attend Grant MacEwan University in Edmonton to study music in the fall.
But many graduates felt the sadness of the day was overwhelmed by excitement for the future.
"Everyone is going to be on to bigger and better things. Our grad class has so many different skill sets. It’s going to be really awesome to see where we all end up," Mathison said.
After filing into Westman Place, students received greetings from school executives including Principal Terry Osiowy, Brandon School Division trustee Peter Bartlette, and BSD Supt. Donna Michaels. Michaels addressed the students with thoughts on change and encouragement for the future.
"Graduates, this celebration signifies a time of serious and joyful change in your lives. It signifies a new reality of life, as the excitement and anticipation of new opportunities meld and blend with the sadness of letting go of what you know," Michaels said.
"May you venture forth from today making meaning with your life. Making meaning that challenges your abilities, fulfills your dreams, and contributes to a kinder, more peaceful, and more generous society."
After the presentation of awards and diplomas, Mathison and a few of his fellow graduates performed the grad song, "Time of Your Life" by Green Day. Mathison then gave his valedictory address, an honour he was flattered to receive with responsibility.
"I’m supposed to get up there and pretend I have a shred of wisdom no one else has, which I don’t," Mathison said before the ceremony.
"I just tried to encompass everyone’s high school experience and send them on their way with a positive message."