It’s graduation season.
Congratulations to all of the students in the Lakes District who graduated this year.
Some of them may be continuing on to college or university, some into the work force and others may still be deciding which path to take.
Whatever the decision, it is an exciting time for the graduates and a time that can also be very daunting.
Many choices lay ahead of them as they step into the ‘adult’ world.
It was really nice to see so many friends and family members turn up to support the Lakes District Secondary School (LDSS) graduates last Friday during the commencement ceremony.
I don’t think there was a spare seat in the gymnasium, let alone an empty parking space close to the school.
Some very inspiring speeches were made by the dignitaries and LDSS teachers during the ceremony.
For me the stand out speech of the afternoon was made by LDSS teacher Steve Wilejto.
What a speech.
Not only did he have words of inspiration for the students, but he managed to mesmerize much of the audience with his words of encouragement .... and he provided more than few laughs too.
I can see why the graduating class voted for him to speak at their ceremony.
I know it must be a very emotional time for parents as their ‘babies’ are now officially grown up.
For parents, their children have grown up in the blink of an eye.
When my daughter was born I was told to enjoy every minute as time flies by.
And it has for some parents I am sure.
For the graduates, their school years are tucked behind them and many are ready to spread their wings and leave the nest.
Some may choose to make a life for themselves in the Lakes District while others will leave the community.... some may even leave the country to travel or even for new employment opportunities or a chance to study abroad.
For most of these students it has been a 13 year journey.
It has taken a lot of commitment and family support to complete their educational journey.
A pat on the back should also go to all the teachers that helped and supported the graduates on their journey through school.
You never forget the teachers that inspired you. I haven’t. To this day I remember my most inspirational teachers ... Mr. (Darren) Upston and Mr. (Bruce) Michael.
The life lessons they taught me so many years ago have stuck with me to this day.
The graduates are not only our future but they are Canada’s future too.
When the tassel is moved from one side to the other, a new chapter begins for them.
They are now ready to change the world in a multitude of ways and I for one am eagerly waiting.
It should also be mentioned that according to the Cpl. Chris Ivany from the Burns Lake RCMP detachment there were no problems with graduation celebrations this year. Cpl. Ivany said the parents were very proactive to ensure there were no problems.
This is great news and certainly something to be proud of.