It was Isfeld students’ turn Saturday to graduate, as School District 71 marks a return to regular commencement ceremonies.
The last two years local schools have had to look for alternate ways to celebrate due to pandemic restrictions.
For Mark Isfeld Secondary School Ecole Secondaire, the uncertain weather forecast did push things inside the school gymnasium after the school had hoped to hold an outdoor event.
After the national anthem and a touching greeting from K’ómoks First Nation Elder Donna Mitchell, Principal Brian McAskill addressed students, family and friends with his take on the Class of 2022, citing some of the exciting future plans for the students — from young entrepreneurs to champion curlers to aspiring chefs.
“These are just a few of the stories that encompass this diverse and awe-inspiring graduation class,” he said.
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He then presented student Chloe McDonald with this year’s Four Pillars Award, while Iris Tinmouth and Chay Trickett delivered the valedictorians’ address, providing a bit of levity but focusing more on their class’s achievements, such as athletic and academic pursuits, as well as community efforts such as raising thousands for causes such as the Terry Fox Run and the Coldest Night of the Year.
“Our successes speak for themselves,” Trickett said.
The pair also thanked parents and teachers for helping them all through their education, particularly over the last couple of difficult years.
“This journey has not been easy or rosy,” Tinmouth said.
After the speech, it was time for the grads to line up to receive their diplomas, toss their caps in the air and celebrate with a post-commencement reception.
In May, Highland held the first commencement ceremony of the season, with the district’s alternate programs following. Vanier winds up the grad events on Saturday, June 25.
mike.chouinard@comoxvalleyrecord.com
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