Challenges and other factors can sometimes be a barrier to learning, but the student awards handed out to several that attend the Ponoka Outreach School during a ceremony on Thursday, June 9 demonstrated what an alternative environment can do for those students.
Awards were given in several different categories based not only on academics, but also for traits they developed and made them successful over the past year.
Outgoing principal Scott Lewis said it was fabulous to see the students from all kinds of different cultures and backgrounds rewarded for the work they have done.
“We also have a number of at-risk students here and learners who don’t fit into the regular educational programming,” Lewis said.
“To look at them now is almost as good as seeing those that have gone on to graduate. While they used to struggle, here some have hit a home run with our one-to-one teaching, go at their own pace and caring and supportive atmosphere. That is truly because of our tremendous teachers - the best of the best - that keeps us being able to make a difference.”
The award recipients included: Positive contribution to school environment - Josh Cutknife, Emily Gartner; Determination and tenacity - Erin Northwest, Chase Brown, Kiera Saddleback; Independent learner - Brigham Day, Samantha van de Pol; Humanities - Shara Martens, Keith van de Pol, Rudy van der Toorn; Math/Science - Lee Wildcat, Thomas Crawford; Perseverance and dedication - Katelyn McClaffin, Calista Littlechild, Jasslynn Saskatchewan; Most improved - Dreyton Foureyes; Positive attitude - Kieffer Northwest, Bronwyn DeGiano; Citizenship - Arriana Gibson; Personal growth - Denver Norn, Vienna Melanson; Award of Excellence - Dianna Both.