Skip to content

PCHS readies class of 2008 for commencement

Ponoka Composite High School students are preparing to close this chapter in their lives and open a new one.

Ponoka Composite High School students are preparing to close this chapter in their lives and open a new one. The first step in this journey is to walk across the stage during their commencement ceremonies on May 9 at the school starting at 7:30 p.m. Once the formal aspect of the weekend is over the graduating class will get all dressed up, ride around town in fancy cars or horse and buggies and arrive at the Ponoka Recreation and Culture Complex May 10 at 5:30 for their banquet.

This year there are 153 students who will participate in the commencement festivities and approximately 800 people are expected at the banquet.

PCHS principal Ian Rawlinson is looking forward to the ceremonies this year.

“One thing when I think about it’s a little moving and special because it is my first graduating class as a high school principal. Frankly, it will be an honour to shake their hands as they walk across the stage,” said Rawlinson.

He thinks that all of the kids at the school are great and has a few words of advice for them.

“They are one of the nicest bunches of kids I have known. They are just really nice. They are also very focused in what they are trying to do. It comes back to the fact they are very respectful, kind, considerate. That goes with all of the kids here at PCHS they are so kind and respectful it is just nice to see,” said Rawlinson. “My advice to all the kids is to set goals and work hard to achieve those goals. Don’t expect things to just happen, make them happen.”

As the date draws near all of the students are anxiously awaiting the day and making finally preparations. Wendy Salvisberg is one of the members of the grad executive committee.

“It’s really exciting, everyone is looking forward to it,” said Salvisberg.

This year the grad song is Here’s to the Night by Eve 6 after the class voted on four other songs. The theme mirrors the song.

“I like it because it’s toasting grad. Our theme is here’s to ... and each grad can personalize it,” she said.

This year the grad committee has come up with the decoration theme of Hollywood.

“Other years there was no decorating theme and we wanted to be different. We will have a red carpet and lights. It will be really neat.”

In the fall she will be heading off to the University of Alberta to pursue her Bachelor of Arts.

“I’m really excited to go to university. It is sad to go away from Ponoka but I’m looking forward to starting something new. Meeting new friends and getting into the university environment.”

St.Augustine will celebrate their commencement on May 22 and the Ponoka Outreach will hold their ceremonies on June 16.