It was a sweet and fond farewell for four grads at Grassland School’s convocation last Saturday.
The small graduating class of 2015 celebrated the end of their high school career with a mix of tears and lots of laughter.
With their dates by their sides, the grads shimmered head to toe as they glided into the Grassland Community Centre, decorated in royal purple and sparkling silver.
After their grand entrance to the Dixie Chicks’ Wide Open Spaces, the girls sat centre stage as teachers, community members, and Aspen View school board members and trustees shared sweet memories and wise words for the future.
When it was time for vValedictorian Marina Chopoidalo to make her speech, her tears came first.
She thanked the teachers for their time and support, the parents for their love, even after her shenanigans, ( — “I know I gave mine grey hairs,” she said jokingly —) and lastly, she thanked her classmates.
“After 12 inseparable years together and so many great memories, it’s hard to imagine us going our separate ways,” she said, “but I really know you’re all going to be successful, wherever your life takes you and I’m proud of us all.”
Guest speaker Lionel Cherniwchan, former Athabasca mayor, reminded the class that many experiences lie ahead of them, and encouraged the grads to take time off to travel the world and “spend mom and dad’s money,” he said with a laugh.
“The opportunity to make your own decisions about the direction of your life, and the feeling of freedom and independence, are two of the most exciting aspects of adulthood that lie ahead of you,” he said.
“As you face and tackle the inevitable changes that occur, hold true to yourself. Remember to hold on to your value system, your work ethic, and most importantly, your humanity.”
