There was little room to stand at the Ponoka Culture and Recreation Complex during the 2015 graduation ceremony of Ponoka Secondary Campus (PSC).
The event was held Friday, June 5 with an excited group of graduates eager to close out a chapter in their lives.
Celebrating “I lived”
While the graduating class did not have a specific theme they chose the song I Lived by OneRepublic.
Principal Ian Rawlinson said that the song is an appropriate theme as he feels graduates will make important life decisions based on love or fear.
“What (ever) you do after your time at PSC is based on love and fear,” said Rawlinson, “don’t settle because you are scared to take the risk that may make you happy.”
He referred to actor Jim Carey and the story of his father. Carey recounted in a 2014 speech that his father chose a safe career job as an accountant but was later fired.
Rather than fail at something they don’t enjoy, Rawlinson suggested that students follow something they enjoy doing.
“Graduates of 2015, you celebrate the end of this chapter. Some did very well, others barely squeaked by and frankly to this point it really doesn’t matter a great deal,” said Rawlinson.
He recommended they live their life to the fullest.
Among the awards and celebrations of the night was also the Principal’s Award. Rawlinson chose Matthew Klimec as this year’s recipient stating he has matured into a strong young man. “But still has a youthful soul that I love so much,” said Rawlinson.
Valedictorian: life lessons
Valedictorian Virginia Harvey made it a goal to have the highest grade point average this year and she accomplished just that.
Appealing to her classmates, she advised they use their experiences in high school for later in life. “Take the lessons you’ve learned and use them the years to come.”
In keeping with the theme song “I Lived”, Harvey recommended that students do just that; live life as best they can.
“We have the ability to achieve anything we want if we’re willing to,” she concluded.
She also thanked parents and teachers for their continued efforts to help their children do well.
Lacombe-Ponoka MLA Ron Orr congratulated students on their accomplishment.
“Today is one of those moments of life-transition . . . you step into a new life in many ways,” explained Orr.
He added that with courage, integrity and perseverance, graduates would succeed in life.
School trustee Lorrie Jess challenged students to “live and to love.” While they will be busy with their new lives after high school, Jess recommended students never forget their family and friends.
Assistant superintendent of schools at Wolf Creek Public Schools Division, Mark McWhinnie added that for students, it is the end of one journey but the beginning of another. “It’s an exciting milestone you are making today,” said McWhinnie.
The commencement ceremonies were also a chance to recognize graduates’ accomplishments with awards for academic or other achievements.