INNISFAIL – Graduation day. A day to remember good times, honour accomplishments and look to the future.
The graduating class of 2018 at Innisfail High School did just that as they shared this special milestone in a ceremony on June 9.
This year there was a total of 68 graduating students.
“This is a culmination of 13 years of work for a lot of these graduates,” said Scott MacDonald, acting principal. “This school in particular, the last couple of years, has been near the top of the province as far as diploma results. It’s been really nice to see that we’ve had a lot of success from our graduates.”
The day began early with the graduation ceremony where students received their high school diplomas. That was followed by a banquet and dance later that day at the Innisfail Arena.
“It’s going to be a big day for them with the ceremony this morning, the banquet with a couple more short speeches and the dance this evening,” said MacDonald, noting friends, school staff, local officials, and family all took part in the students' big day.
Mayor Jim Romane, MP Earl Dreeshen and school board officials also participated, along with a special address by long-time graduation organizer, teacher Niki Riddell-Fulton. She is moving on in her career and participated in her last graduation at Innisfail High School.
MacDonald noted students' future hopes.
“We have students that want to go into all walks of life,” he said. “From the trades all the way to medicine and everything in between. We have a lot of ambitious students with a lot of big dreams.
“We’re looking forward to seeing them graduate today and embarking on their next step in life,” said MacDonald.
One of those students was valedictorian Jillian Arthur.
“It’s a big honour and privilege to be (valedictorian) so I’m super excited,” said Arthur.
She said her valedictory address included thanking teachers for their hard work and dedication, parents for their support over the years and sharing memories and advice for her fellow graduating students.
“Reach for their goals, never give up and always try their hardest,” said Arthur. “Don’t be afraid of failure because it will happen, but pick yourself up and try your best.”
Arthur said she will cherish a few lessons learned during her high school days.
“Just how important people are. It’s very important to go out and help people, use your passions and inspire others,” Arthur concluded.
