Students, teachers and members of the community said au revoir to two graduates from École Desrochers, June 25.
Martin Kreiner and Emerson Ostrander were the first to graduate from the new joint school facility and were showered with praise for their achievements throughout their high school careers.
Wearing a cap and gown, both men entered St. Mary and St. George Anglican Church to a standing ovation, before sitting down in front of the audience.
“I think we’re probably the only school in the world that can claim to have 100 per cent of our graduates being exceptional students and incredible individuals,” said Jocelyn Nadeau, a Grade 11-12 teacher at the school and the master of ceremonies.
Both men were recognized for their academic achievements as well as their extracurricular activities, including playing football for the Jasper Glaciers.
Using a mountain as a metaphor, Nadeau urged the young men to strive for their dreams and persevere when they run into challenges.
“I want you to start building a trail to the top and when the going gets tough, the spruce or alders get too thick, the slopes get too steep or when you get cliffed out, I want you to find a way through,” he said.
Other dignitaries in attendance echoed similar ideas.
“Emerson and Martin, your choice of education at the École Desrochers and your leadership skills and athletic endeavours leave little doubt for your future successes,” said Coun. Dwain Wacko.
“Pursue your future with passion and let the idealism of these years be your mantra, and in the words of Spock ‘longue vie et prospérer.’”
During the ceremony, both men prepared a speech to thank their supporters throughout the years.
In September, Kreiner expects to study industrial design at the University of Alberta before eventually finding a career in architecture. Emerson intends to study general sciences at the University of British Columbia in Kelowna.
Paul Clarke
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