Graduation 2025

It hasn't been easy. We've all faced our own worries and headaches. I know at some point or another, a lot of us have questioned if we would actually walk across this stage, and whether maybe the discouraging comments directed towards us throughout our lives were true

“School isn't the place to be dealing with your personal issues.”

“Your mental health is too much for this school.”

“You shouldn't be in a classroom”

“You have to leave for his safety, not yours”

“How can you expect to pass at this rate?”

These are all comments people have said to us before coming to TREC. Maybe some of you have also heard similar statements.

“I'm not going to catch up, I might as well quit.”

“I'm too far behind, I can't do this anymore!”

 “I don't belong with other people”

“Nobody here understands what I'm going through.”

“I'm broken. There's something wrong with me.”

These are some of the thoughts WE have had about ourselves based on what others have told us or the things we believe. There are haunting labels that have been placed on us. We have names put upon us without knowing who WE actually are. At some point or another, I think a lot of us have let the negative things get to us, and made us believe that it's who we are.

A majority of us probably thought this school was a sentence when we first came to TREC. That it was a “last chance”, and that we would just have to hear these same messages all over again. Whispers about “the school for troublemakers” only reinforced the idea that we were a lost cause.

We've learned since coming to TREC that this school and the students here are so much more than just a lost cause. It wasn't a last resort, but a new beginning, a strong community where everyone can find a place to be themselves and fit in.

Here, trust and respect are given by default, they are not something to be earned. To maintain that trust and warrant that respect, is up to you.

We are not judged for what brought us to this school. We are not questioned or interrogated about our pasts. We are heard when we advocate for ourselves, and we are given the tools we need to continue to do so.

With the respect that is between the teachers and students, comes the trust that they will guide us through our classes and we will communicate with them what we need. There is endless support and resources available to us, but they're not pushed on us unless we want them. With that, what YOU put into building relationships and your learning, is what you'll get out of it.

We all have our own reasons for coming to TREC, and our own struggles that brought us here.

Since the beginning of elementary school, I have felt out of place. For a lot of my life I was known at school as the kid with “anger issues”. I struggled socially, and academically, and I spent a lot of time questioning why I seemed to be the only one who found school so difficult. Starting high school, which I thought would give me more freedom and independence to do things in a way that worked for me, instead brought me a whole new world of challenges and obstacles. I didn't think it was possible, but I somehow hated school even more than I had before.

I came to TREC in grade 10, after leaving a toxic situation that had made school even more difficult to manage. Almost immediately, going to school stopped feeling like the end of the world. I started actually enjoying being at school. TREC gave me the supportive and secure environment I needed to feel like myself again. I have known nothing but encouragement, trust, and faith from all the staff, and I am so proud to call myself a TREC graduate.

In January 2023, I started at TREC after struggling with addiction and mental health challenges. My old school recommended I transfer, saying they couldn’t provide the support I needed. When I arrived, I was already a year behind. By May 2023, I had to leave school to get professional help. The counselors at TREC helped create a plan: they gathered my classwork, kept in contact with the facility I was at, and arranged for a teacher to stay after school once a week to help me catch up. Even by September 2024, I still didn’t think I’d graduate with the class of 2025. But thanks to the dedication of my teachers and counselors, I made it. Their constant support and belief in me helped me keep going, even when I wanted to give up. By winter break of this school year, I had finished all my coursework — something I never thought would have been possible. Without TREC, I’d still be stuck in grade 10, struggling. But today, I’m here, graduating early and walking the stage with all of you, and that’s because of the incredible support I received. TREC truly saved my life.

It wouldn't be an understatement to say that TREC saved us. This school, and everyone here, gave us a new chance to make futures for ourselves. We have learned countless valuable lessons in our time here, not just about numbers, history or writing, but about the world and ourselves, and how to find our place in it.

At TREC teachers push us to do and be our best, pushing us past our limits and out of our comfort zones. But it's never out of frustration, it's out of care and love. They know how much we are able to learn from them and how far they can push. The words and kindness from them lets us go past our mental limits despite fear. They care not just about us, but they care for us. They stick up for us when we are afraid. They let us know we are not just students, but we are human.

We cannot give enough thanks to everyone here, this school has truly changed our lives for the better.

Terry Crews said “Embrace failure. Never never quit. Get very comfortable with that uneasy feeling of going against the grain and trying something new. It will constantly take you places you never thought you could go.”(maybe rayna reads this?)

In life, growth doesn't come from praise — it comes from self-discovery. You won’t succeed at everything you do, just like you won’t fail at everything. It's the process of figuring things out, learning, and growing that builds real character. “Failure” isn't an ending, it's a step in the process of growth.

Failure teaches resilience, and struggle builds skill. Through trial, error, and effort, you uncover your passions and your talents. Your success and failure shape who you are- they don't define you or your future. What is important is that you have the courage to keep going through the struggles and difficulties you face. The Effort, tears and headaches it's taken for us to get where we are today has been inspiring. Stopping or giving up now isn't an option, we all have come a long way from where we started and you should be so proud of yourself.

The world has often not been kind to us, and it wont start now. We've learned to jump through hoops and grit our teeth to get to where we are today. As anticlimactic (underwhelming) as it is, there are only more hoops from here.

This is the part where I'm sure you're expecting us to say “well, we showed them! We proved that we can do it despite everything!” but that's not the message we want you to take away from today. Today, we prove to OURSELVES that we can do it, that we can overcome great challenges.

Despite the negative things people have told you, despite what you've told yourself, you did it! You did it, and you should be proud of this victory.

I hope that this school has taught you, as it has taught us, one of the most valuable skills there is. The ability to choose the right people for you, and who you surround yourself with. The skill and understanding on how to find who YOUR team and support system will be. These people will help pick you up when you get knocked down, guide you to find your voice when you lose it. encourage you to find moments of joy and excitement among the chaos of your life. I know you will do the same for them, you will help hold them up and stand by them, like they will/did for you.

Never limit yourself based on what someone else thinks is possible. You are the future — you are YOUR future, and you get to decide the mark you leave on the world. Speak up, and make your voice heard, even when it feels like no one is listening.

As we stand here today we are not only celebrating our success as graduates, we are celebrating our future, and the opportunities we've earned for ourselves. Today we will look around at all these people who are here to celebrate with us, and thank them. Thank them for the endless support and love we have received throughout the years. We would not be here today without them. But we wouldn't be here without our fellow classmates either, you all have made showing up to school more bearable, being able to go into the halls and not being afraid or feeling as if you are an outcast. Everyone here has changed at least my mind on how school is.

As we face whatever the world has in store for us next, let's remember the challenges, hardships and achievements we’ve had. They are not a dark past to be ashamed of, they are the stories that lead us here, and that will continue to lead us to our success. We have all worked so hard to get where we are today and we will continue to work hard for whatever life throws at us.

When you walk through these doors today, bring with you the same courage and dedication that you have shown over the years. Remember your values, morals and your connections. Today is proof that you are capable of overcoming some of your greatest challenges!!!!!!!!

Congratulations to the class of 2025!!! (say together) 

Good evening to all. My name is Jaynus Lecoy-Peters also known as… well I can’t say that here… I will just tell you what my mom calls me “get them damn dishes done” or “get off that damn game” but I think she realized I didn't like those names since I didn't listen, sorry mom. My mom is Anne Peters, my dad is Ira Lecoy, and my grandparents are Gordy Peters and Suzie Wells. I am honoured to be here tonight representing the Graduating Class of 2025.

Just like everyone sitting here, when I started at Four Directions I was scared, but my first day was like nothing else. It was a feeling I could not explain. I made a lot of friends that day, I couldn't wait until the next day and I would say the feeling was mutual. It was like we met and we were just friends, no questions asked. I think that's what made our friendships special. That’s part of what makes Four Directions special. Little did I know that those friends I made that day would be my friends for life and I am so glad to be standing up here with my peers.

It sucks to say that our journey is ending, but I'm sure glad for our time at Four Directions and glad for the lifetime of memories we made together. It feels like yesterday that I started here, which is probably why it feels like a lucid dream because it’s been the best time of my life. There’s a lot of reasons to go to Four Directions: the field trips, the learning, and so much more. So many in fact that if I told you all of them we would be here for hours. And that's what made this school worth going to.

I would now like to say thanks to the people that helped us get here: Our families have been with us all the way through school, and I’d like to thank my mom, and my brothers, Arnel and Tyrel, they have always been by my side and I will always be grateful to call them my family. I would also like to thank my brothers from other mothers: Kevin Lavoie-Dick, Skyler Isadore-Oakes, Dominic Manuel, and Kenada Lulua for being there when I needed them most and for all the memories, even if it's just us screaming at each other on the game like when they tell me to look right and I look left.

I will always think about the bus rides we had together because those were probably the funniest and fun moments. Whether it was just us singing or joking around or even if it's just us sleeping on the way back to school from a long fun field trip.

I would also like to thank the 3 most life changing teachers ever: Jordan, Courtney, and Laverne. They will always be the best teachers ever because they never judge and are the best helpers ever. Courtney Bruin for teaching us all the fun math and science and for hanging up all the fun field trip pictures in her room. Jordan Smith for teaching us all the fun about English and setting up all the fun field trips and for trying to help with math when Courtney was not here, even if we got a question wrong we still learned how to solve it together.

Laverne Tremblay for always asking if we are coming to school even if we didn't. When she texted it would still make me think that I should go and for giving me rides to school and for giving me gum when my breath smelled like expired milk. I’d also like to add one more thanks to the love of my life Kyra Fortier for seeing me and all the changes I have gone through and all the mistakes and staying after everything may the future hold us together.

My advice for everyone is to live in the moment and don’t worry about the future that hasn't happened yet. Even though writing this down right now I am worried about this speech, the irony is crazy. Also don’t worry about the past that has already happened, live right now at the moment because every second that passes it turns into a memory and someday you will look back and wonder where did all the time go and would want to go back, god knows I do. Facebook and snapchat is gonna rub it in by showing you pictures and showing you how old they are. More advice, hard work pays off. Try your best and if it doesn't work out just know your best, your hard work, the effort was enough for someone that's a win in my book.

We are now reaching the end of my speech and I would like to wish all my fellow graduates good luck. Make sure to have fun. Make sure to smile at least once a day. It’s a scary world out there, so stay safe and have fun. Explore the world, the sky's not even the limit, go as high as you can! Do your best, be the best you can be, be who you want to be, love yourself, be happy with who you are, be you ok.

Thank you / Kukwstsétsemc

• I want to say Kukwstsétsemc to the Elder (say their name) for starting us off in a good way.
• Kukwstsétsemc to the people who talked before you – try name them
• Kukwstsétsemc to the MC(s) for doing a good job. (Give them a round of applause)

Weykt Xywytep, Tansí Kakiyo, Hadi Tsi-yan-nay.

Mikoh Rose ren skwekwst.Kémell te Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc re múmtwen. Te Mikisiw-wacîhk ell Nak'azdli Whut'en re st7é7kwen.

Mikoh Rose nisihkason. Mikisiw-wacîhko chi neya.

Mikoh Rose le soozih Maiyoo Keyoh nkez Nak’azdli Whut’enun.

Hello my friends, my name is Sangwathdue (Butterfly) – my english name is Mikoh Rose - on my maternal side, I belong to both the Dakelh and Stó:lō Nations where I am a proud member of my customary group, the Maiyoo Keyoh. On my paternal side - I am a proud nêhiyaw-iskwêw (cree woman) belonging to the Red Pheasant Cree Nation. For the past ten years, I have had the immense honour of living as a humbled First Nation guest in Secwepemcúl’ecw, where I have been welcomed into the community of Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc, guided by the love and teachings of my Paul k̓wséltkten. I carry deep gratitude for the opportunity to access both Secwépemc and western education within the beautiful Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc and want to acknowledge the territory we are one today.

I want to acknowledge the Elders, Knowledge Keepers, Leadership, and families for being here today supporting your loved ones and all of us. The ones before us, who are here with us in spirit - their prayers, strength, and guidance brought us to this moment, and we are the young leaders and warriors they dreamt us to be. They saw us, stood by us, and believed in our potential. You have helped shape the people we are becoming. This achievement belongs to all of you, too. Lastly, to Indigenous Education and School District 73 for all the support for making this day possible to be able to share all the successes of my fellow classmates and our families.

It is with deep gratitude that I stand before you today as co-valedictorian for the Indigenous graduating class of 2025, I also want to congratulate my fellow valedictorian (Name) for sharing this privilege with me.

As we know as Indigenous youth, our empowerment has come from our territories, communities and the relationships we have built throughout our learning journeys. When I think about where we come from and what shapes us, and who we are as Indigenous peoples – we are shaped by our Indigenous Knowledge systems. Where Indigenous Knowledge is not just a lesson, it is a lifelong reciprocal relationship, and it keeps us grounded in who we are. While western success may look like: a house, money, and getting married - and with social media we feel we have to live up to these ideals, but Indigenous success looks a lot different, where each of us have and will continue to push
towards our traditional language fluency, access to our territories, and continue to honour our cultural teachings.

For myself, my greatest teacher is and always has been the land. Going back home to my Keyoh, has always grounded me and taught me many life skills that I have incorporated in my schoolwork and studies. Things such as kinship, Indigenous law, principles and protocols, respect, reliability, all of which have all helped me move forward in a good way. Indigenous Knowledge systems are not a module, they are integral to all our growth. I encourage all of you as you continue your journey - know that what you have to offer is enough, your knowledge and unique self is what your Ancestors had prayed for. Keep striving to be the best version of yourself and never forget where you come from.

Looking ahead, I will be pursuing a degree in Indigenous-Settler Relations at TRU, to support my goal of becoming a First Nation Women lawyer, who upholds and revitalizes Indigenous legal orders—who stands to protect the rights and title of our Nations, and to carry forward the advocacy of our Ancestors - to continue to create space for all of who we are. I ask all of you to continue on your path to success with whatever that looks like for you. As we know, success looks different for everyone and know that you have a community behind you to support you to reach those goals. Indigenous representation matters, and with all of us being here today, graduating, we are breaking down barriers, thriving in spaces that were not meant for us, inspiring our people and the ones to come, and being those young leaders who will continue to strive for excellence.

To my peers this is just the beginning. You are the protectors, the storytellers, leaders, and the healers your Nations have been waiting for. Never forget who you are, and where you come from. You carry greatness. You are greatness.

Limləmt. Thank you for coming to this ceremony tonight.

Good evening to everyone gathered here — to our Elders, our families, our mentors, and most of all, to my fellow Indigenous graduates. My name is Maple Peel, graduating from westsyde secondary. But more importantly, from the Lower Similkameen Indian Band. I am so proud and privileged to be standing here, not only as one of your peers but also as one of the valedictorians. I speak today not only as your valedictorian, but as a witness. A witness to all your resilience, and your quiet bravery — as well as your loud, unapologetic pride.

Let's say this clearly: We belong here, succeeding.

There is no single way to be Indigenous — but all of us here today have brought our own pieces of culture, community, and memory into this journey. We’ve carried our families’ hopes. We’ve carried the teachings of our elders. We’ve carried the pain of generational traumas, and the joy of reclaiming what was almost taken. And somehow, through all of it — we’ve also carried books, deadlines, and exam stress.

We did it, you- did it!

I want to speak directly to you — my fellow graduates from across the school district. What we’ve done is not just academic. It is cultural. It is emotional. It is spiritual.

Some of us are the first in our families to walk this path- which looks different for each one of us. Some of us are following in the footsteps of those who came before — aunties, uncles, siblings who have carved the trail. And some of us are walking with the spirits of those who never got the chance to be here today.

There were days, I’m sure, when it felt like too much.

Days when you wanted to quit.

Days when you felt like you had to leave your emotions and culture at the door just to succeed in a space that didn’t see you or accommodate you.

And yet — you stayed.

You studied.

You prayed.

You laughed.

You helped each other.

You showed up again.

And now, look at you. Sitting here, graduating not just with a certificate, but with your full self — still intact, still rooted, and still rising.

To our families: thank you. Thank you to the mothers, fathers, aunties, uncles, cousins, grandparents — to the guardians who gave up sleep so we could have a chance. Who drove us to school, cooked for us, prayed for us, picked us up when we fell, and reminded us who we are.

To the Knowledge Keepers who reminded us to walk with humility — thank you for helping us remember that success doesn’t mean leaving our teachings behind. It means carrying them forward, wherever we go next. 

And to our fellow students — thank you for the encouragement, for the power through our individual struggles and through the pandemic. But thank you most for the shared laughter. Indigenous solidarity is powerful, and we’ve seen how much we can lift each other just by showing up and creating safe spaces where we can thrive.

Graduation isn’t just an ending. It’s the beginning of something sacred and beautiful.

What happens next matters just as much as this moment. You are the future, the future educators, nurses, artists, engineers, land stewards, language protectors — and whatever else your soul dreams of. But no matter what we do, let’s carry forward the values and hard work that brought us here:

Let’s create spaces where the next generations can walk into classrooms and feel seen. Let’s bring our languages back — not just into schools, but into boardrooms and courtrooms and hospitals.

Let’s make sure this moment isn’t rare.

Let’s make our culture normal.

Before I close, I want to offer a moment of reflection — for those who didn’t make it here with us. For the ones we lost along the way. For the ones who couldn’t continue, not because they weren’t capable, but because the systems around them weren’t kind. We carry them, too.

Let this be for them. And for those yet to come.

I’ll end with this: You are not just students.

You are Nations rising.

You are stories continuing.

Your knowledge becomes visible.

Limləmt for your courage, for your brilliance, and for your love of who you are.

To all my relations — may we keep rising, together.

Congratulations fellow graduates of 2025.

Never in all my school career did I see myself getting to speak to my graduating class. But if you know me, you’ve had to listen to my voice every morning on the announcements so what did you really expect? But jokes aside, I am very proud and honoured beyond my ability to express myself.

Spending most of my childhood being labeled as the “hyper wild child” who was “too much” and my teachers emailing my parents an actual thesis about why I couldn’t function in a classroom and how I didn’t have a place among my peers. I’m fortunate enough to say for the most part I am a very happy and content person, but I’ve always had the lingering dread that I do not belong. I came to NorKam with plenty of friends from elementary, but still with knots in my stomach from the fear that I would still end up being annoying, and the butt of everyone’s joke, and the easiest to pick on because I tried to be nice.

I think a lot of us came to NorKam feeling like that. I think a lot of us stepped through these doors afraid to get trampled in the halls, afraid of losing friends, and afraid we might not be able to do it.

But look at us now. Look at how far we’ve come. Look at how far you have come. Today we are celebrating more than a certificate, or a scholarship, or even NorKam as a school. Today is about you, and each and every one of you. For more than just being NorKam students, but for being you as individuals. I see so many faces here who I’ve known for longer than I can remember. I see so many people who, like me, were told they were “too much” or needed to change and you said no. You said, “this is me and this is who I want to be”.

We have all been through so much together and leaving has made me reflect on some of these memories that more often than not turned out to be comedy gold. From the great “Schedule Reset of 2022”, the back to back fire drills last year, to the beginner band kids setting the practice rooms on fire. Good times indeed. Going to the courthouse for law and getting to see Asher John get patted down, IT WAS FOR A DEMONSTRATION! Seeing the theatre plays at TRU was always a highlight of the semester, even when they got freakier than an episode of Big Mouth. And we can’t forget the best bragging right we have over the rest of our school, getting to have wise blocks back when it was actually good and roaming the halls wild and free without hall passes!

Everyone here today got here from staying up late to finish assignments, contributing countless hours to extracurricular activities, school spirit, and gave themselves to this school for years.

But most of all, everyone here has made it here by being themselves, and that is what NorKam means to me.

I personally want to thank a few members of staff who always treated me with the highest respect, dignity, and support.

Mr. Walton, English 10 & 11 with you was genuinely a class I looked forward to every day and sparked a flame of passion for writing and creativity for me and I know that I’ll carry that with me for the rest of my life.

Mrs. Graham, being in drama for 3 years has without a doubt been the highlight of my school career and in no small way it gave me a space to be expressive, over the top, and “too much” in a place where for the first time that felt like it was alright.

Mrs. Kucko & and all the office staff, you greeted me every morning with a smile and a sincere care for me and how I was doing. Even on my dullest days every morning got off to a good start because of you.

Mr. How, you always had a great attitude and a real passion to teach even when the band class managed to rehearse 10 seconds of our music. You were always excited to hear about my comedy shows and offered to buy my dry grad tickets when my family was struggling.

From the first day in your class I felt valued, and like you honestly believed I could do all the absurd things I wanted to do.

I have more members of staff I’d like to thank but I don’t want to make you all sit here till capstone week.

But even more, to every member of the NorKam staff, thank you for coming in every day. Thank you for giving yourself to all of us and believing in us when most of us didn’t believe in ourselves.

Thank you for letting us be “too much”.

We’ve all been walking towards the door that holds the future together, and it is so scary. It’s so scary to think about what we’ll do, it’s scary to think that we might not make it. But when you walk through these doors today think about who you were when you came here and look at who you are now. Think of how impossible graduation seemed at times, how many sleepless nights. But you conquered it and you made it here because that’s what NorKam students do. So if you conquered all of that at NorKam, think of what you’ll conquer when you leave.

So go move mountains, build skyscrapers, cure diseases, become celebrities, and change the world.

If I’ve learned anything at NorKam, it’s that the future is what you make it so go out and write your futures, be fantastic, and be “too much”. To quote my favourite movie trilogy, Doctor Emmett Brown said, “It means your future isn’t written yet, no one’s is. Your future is whatever you make it, so make it a good one!” However, we all know the future can be challenging, therefore, Sam will give you a piece of advice for the future. 

It all started back in elementary school, where we made our first friends, had our first laughs, and wore backpacks that were the same size as us, if not bigger. We were constantly filled with excitement for everything that was to come. We lived for recess and lunches always felt way too short because we were busy having fun. Nobody warns you about how fast time flies by, except maybe our parents.

High school felt so far away, almost like the end would never come. We always imagined what being a teenager was like, or what it would be like to graduate from high school. Eventually, all the moments we thought would never come flew by. All of the sports games, group projects, field trips, all the moments we didn't realize could become distant memories. Now that it's coming to an end, we’re all here in our caps and gowns, looking back and wondering, where did all the time go?

When we first walked through the halls of Westsyde, we heard “Welcome, graduating class of 2025”. It was so surreal to hear coming from our teachers and even ourselves. Graduation felt like a lifetime away. Turns out that it wasn't. Through the years, we have gotten to know each other, our teachers, and we have spent way too much money on Ally’s cafeteria cookies.

We often whined about having to go to school, about Mondays, about school work, and how we couldn't wait to graduate and for it all to be over. Now, most of us might realize that saying “I can't wait” was stopping us from living in the moment. So enjoy the people around you and the present moment because this, especially, will only happen once. I can't wait to see all of our accomplishments in the years ahead. As a group, we started from the very bottom, and it looks like the whole team is here, and I’m glad we can share this moment.

Good evening, Westsyde staff, our families, friends, and most importantly (no offence), the graduating class of 2025. My name is Madeleine Sherman, or Maddie, which is what most of you know me by. I want to start off by thanking all of our parents, guardians, and families for helping us get to where we are today. Mom, stop crying.

I also want to thank all of our teachers and supporters. Mrs. Isenor, for always being the loudest in the room, sometimes before she even got there. Thank you so much Mr. Marriot for teaching us GIMP modules… We REALLY appreciated it, we will take that knowledge with us into our futures. Thanks to Mr. Porter for guiding all of the talented athletes in this class, and for being tall enough to be able to dunk without even jumping, we aren't jealous at all. There are many more teachers I could talk about who have equally impacted our class as a whole, but I’m trying to keep this speech short.

Last but not least, thank you to the counselors, custodians, Mrs. Nelson for giving us dozens of late slips and everyone in between. I am honored to stand here and represent our grad class as the 2025 Westsyde Secondary Valedictorian. I want to thank my classmates who allowed me this opportunity on such a special date, you shouldn't have. No, honestly, you should not have.

As we gather here today, this ceremony symbolizes the end of a long chapter in our lives and the start of a new one. We will learn new things, meet new people, and make many mistakes. We are all going to do different things from here on out. Some of us will go to university or college, some will travel, some will continue to play sports, and some will go on to do other things that, unfortunately, I could not think of while writing this speech. But, before anything else, I want to take us all back to the very beginning of this journey, when we carried those princess and superhero backpacks that were too big.

When we were little, there was always one recurring question that everyone always asked us. “What do you want to be when you grow up?” When we were 6, there were answers like princesses, superheroes, like my mom or dad, and much more. When they asked again a couple of years later, it got way more serious. The answers were firefighters, doctors, and still for the boys, superheroes. Now, grads, when you think about it. What do you want to be when you grow up?” Have you decided?

It's okay if you're still unsure, because aren't we all? As we exit this experience, we yearn for something new and exciting. The plans we make won't always unfold as we expected them to. We will all fail, fall on our faces, and want to give up from time to time. The perseverance that high school has put us through will push us into the future. We will remember that failure is an opportunity for growth and that this isn't the time to be perfect. Right now is when we should be messing things up, making mistakes, and embracing regrets, because in the big picture, none of it defines us. We are young and still have so much to learn and experience.

Graduation doesn't mean we need to know what we’re going to do with the rest of our lives. It means we are opening ourselves up to a world full of possibility, adventure, and change. We finally have the freedom to explore what this world has to offer. This is the time to question ourselves and push our limits. We should be trying things out and changing your mind, again and again. We have so much time on our hands, and it is our superpower to make mistakes and to grow from them.

Time is temporary, we are lucky enough to make memories so good we miss them. So don't waste it by living through other people. Do something important to you and make what you have count. Whether your dreams are writing a book, traveling, and seeing the world, or taking it one day at a time. The future belongs to us and however we want to explore it.  Every mistake we make will propel us to greater things. After we try new things and make those mistakes. When someone asks us for the very last time, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” We won't have to question ourselves because we’ll just know.

We have all shared awkward moments of first entering high school and the unforgettable final days in Westsyde. Now that we are coming to the end of our journey, remember that it’s also the beginning of something new. Life has so much to offer, so grab every opportunity you can.

Before ending this speech, I would like to share a quote with you from Stephen Chbosky’s ‘Perks of Being a Wallflower’.

“I know these will all be stories someday. And our pictures will become old photographs. We’ll all become somebody's mom or dad. But right now, these moments are not stories. This is happening.” “And in this moment, I swear, we are infinite.”

Remember, you only live once, so be a princess, superhero, or whatever you want to be. I know when I was just a kid, I always wanted to be a superhero, and eventually, the city called my name… All jokes aside, none of you has seen me and Spider-Man in a room together.

Thank you, everyone, and congratulations to the class of 2025.

Good evening, faculty, families, friends, and fellow graduates,

It is truly a privilege to stand before you today as the valedictorian’s of the Class of 2025 at Valleyview Secondary. Looking back over the past five years, we are filled with a sense of pride and gratitude for all that we’ve experienced together. What an incredible honour it has been to share these years with such a special group of people.

Walking through the doors of valley view for the first time, our graduating class was about to embark on some very unique experiences: being split into two cohorts, managing the dreaded three hour classes and not to mention a few questionable fashion choices. It wasn't until we reached grade 9 that I even saw all of the faces, I am gazing out at now.

I never imagined how much we would grow as people, and it's been amazing to witness each and every one of us becoming our own person. We’ve had so many opportunities to try new things—whether it was joining a new club like Art Club or Dungeons and Dragons, playing a new sport like Ultimate, participating in a school production, or simply stepping outside our comfort zones. These experiences have molded us into the individuals we are today, each of us growing in our own unique way while still forming strong connections with one another.

Trying new things is how we grow. Some people took a class they thought they’d hate, and it ended up changing their entire career path. Some of us simply sat with someone new at lunch—and found a lifelong friend. Throughout our time here, we’ve all had moments that pulled us out of our comfort zones—moments where we took a risk and ended up being just fine. Those are the moments that often shape us the most.

Over the last five years, our graduating class has experienced many things. We survived not only a year of COVID together, but also Mr. Wilson’s constant teasing. Some of us survived long weekends away at sports tournaments, while others spent countless hours rehearsing and performing. Friendships have been made, people have grieved, lockdowns have happened, fire alarms have been pulled, and yes—we’ve even encountered a few hairless cats along the way.

These are the memories we will carry with us—not how high or low a simple letter grade was, but the highs and lows of daily life at Valleyview; we stood by each other, and together, we’ve made it through these five years.

As much as we cherish the past, we also know the future is full of limitless possibilities. We’ve been preparing for what comes next for the last twelve years, and in just a few weeks, the future will be here. The bell will ring at that odd time—2:56—for the last time, and a bittersweet feeling will wash over us. We’ll watch as everyone cheers for the start of summer break, knowing for us, it’s more than that—it’s the end of an era.

Some of us are heading to university, college, some into the trades, others into the workforce or out to explore the world. As we take on this next chapter, we encourage everyone to keep saying “yes” to new things. Take the elective that sounds intimidating. Apply for the internship that feels out of reach. Start that business—or embark on that adventure. Try to avoid getting stuck in a stagnant cycle, even when change feels scary.

As we step into what’s next, let’s carry forward the lessons we’ve learned here—lessons about trying new things, pushing through setbacks, and enjoying every moment of the journey. The future may be uncertain, but that uncertainty is what makes it exciting. And while we may not know exactly what lies ahead, I believe the class of 2025 is ready for whatever comes our way.

To my fellow graduates, we want to say thank you for making these years so special. We’ve had the privilege of getting to know many of you, and we are incredibly proud to have shared this journey with each of you. We have no doubt you’ll go on to accomplish amazing things. As you look around today, some of you have known each other since kindergarten, while others may have just recently connected. You’ve watched your classmates grow up, and together we’ve shared so many milestones—first days, first friends, even first dates.

It’ll be strange not seeing familiar faces in the hallways next year. So let’s cherish this—**the laughs, the smiles, and even the stress—**because this is the last time we’ll all be together.

To the families and guardians of the graduating class—we thank you. I’m sure it hasn't been easy supporting us as we tried to figure out who we want to be. Through all the mood swings, breakdowns, and breakthroughs, you stuck by our sides. Your support has meant everything—and it hasn’t gone unnoticed.

And finally, to the teachers and staff at Valleyview—thank you. There have been many ups and downs between staff and students, and I’m sure it hasn’t always been easy. For some of us, you’ve been more than educators. You’ve been mentors, motivators, and role models during some of our most formative years. Whether it was through your lessons, your coaching, your patience, your encouragement—or even the occasional disagreement—you’ve played a huge part in shaping who we are and your impact will go far beyond the classroom.

So, let’s embrace what lies ahead with open hearts and open minds. Because if we’ve learned one thing in these last five years, it’s that life is all about people—the ones who brought laughter to the hardest classes, and even some fun to the Vicars Plover Run.

Take a look around, each and every one of you is that “somebody” to someone. Whether they’re seated next to you now, or were the first person to talk to you in Grade 8. These last five years—ones we’ll never forget—will forever remain a pivotal moment in our lives, a stepping stone to our future.

No matter the path you take, keep trying new things, making memories, and most importantly, enjoying the adventure the future holds for all of us.

Good evening, guests, families, teachers, and staff. Thank you for joining us in celebrating Sa-Hali’s 50th graduating class, the class of 2025.

I'm Rasiq Dewan, 

and I’m Isabel Phillips

As a 13-year-old bug-eyed kid walking into Sa-Hali Secondary, we all thought 5 years was an eternity. Before long, we find ourselves here, with only a few weeks left together.

In physics class, Mr. Smith said time was relative, and maybe he's onto something. Sure, some moments seemed to drag on for eternity, like our literacy exams or waiting for the school wifi to load Google Docs. But the good times seemed to fly by in an instant, whether that was your final season of school soccer, or the last time ever having Mr. Kitamura

or Ms. Cail

as your teacher. We spend hours doom-scrolling on TikTok, telling ourselves that our brains need a break.

And while yes, sometimes they do,

The world keeps moving forward. We must realize that we ain't kids no more, we’ll never be those kids again. Wandering the halls with that sparkle in our eyes.

Frankly, while we’re not young forever, we’ve certainly been through some memorable times during our tenure at Sa-hali. Grade 8 was a mess. We were thrown into high school amidst a global pandemic, switching classes every few months from that grim quarter system, and unaware of where the bathrooms were located.

Then came Grade 9, our first real taste of high school. We finally had no divided cohorts, lockers we could put our backpacks in, AND the ability to stay inside the building for breaks.

Grade 10 felt like we were getting the hang of it. Classes started to feel a bit more serious, Dons trips during GRIT block started to look more and more attractive. We finally had enough seniority to push around the grade 8s, but were also kept in line by our senior overlords.

Last year, arguably one of the toughest years, we were saying goodbye to all the seniors we looked up to. We knew we would no longer see their faces wandering around the hallways when we were all supposed to be in class, and couldn’t use them for their licenses to go out for lunch. We were envious of the freedom that comes with grade 12, but also knew that it would come with greater responsibilities.

Now we are the ones getting used for our cars, and saying goodbye to the younger grades. This year has been a battle of worrying about our next steps, filling out university and scholarship applications, and fighting the burnout that inevitably comes with the end of grade 12. Some of us have been fighting senioritis all year, and for those still hanging on, I truly commend you. The 50 years of Sa-Hali grads that have come before us have set an example for us to look up to. Now, we must carry on this legacy and set a precedent for the next generation of Sabres. All of this time flew by, and most of us took it for granted. What if you never auditioned for that lead role?

What if you had joined the debate club?

What if we hadn’t lost the provincial finals by 1 point?

What if you stepped outside…your comfort zone? Life is full of what-ifs, but dwelling on the past will take us nowhere. The most valuable thing we have in this world is time, so why waste it? Why not enjoy your time to the fullest? Be ambitious, cherish what you have, hold the memories and connections you’ve made close to your heart, as no one’s life is like your own. They say that comparison is the thief of joy. Everyone wants what they don’t have, but you are never going to find happiness if you’re always chasing something bigger and
better. The happiest people are content with what they possess, not burdened by what they don’t have.

Let this serve as a reminder to appreciate the blessings already present in your life. Sure, your classmate may drive to school in a brand new BMW X6, but these materialistic things and accolades can’t replace the deeper value of what you already have. Being grateful for the present keeps us grounded in what truly matters -- The people we’ve become. Being grateful doesn't mean you should stop striving for more; it simply means not losing sight of what you have while chasing what's next. As we step into a new light and begin the next chapter of our lives, remember to embrace each moment as it comes, the good and the bad.

Preparing to leave the freshly painted walls of Sa-Hali behind, it is crucial to remember the lessons and bonds we've created over these formative years. In grade 8, we didn’t enter this building with the same idea of what high school would be like. Now, being seniors, not much has changed. Some of us are planning to go into post-secondary right away, others are taking a gap year to decide who they want to be, and a few of us are even taking a semester at sea.

The point is, each of us is on our own journey. We don’t have the time to waste worrying about what someone else is doing on their own. As J. Cole put it, “There’s no such thing as a life that’s better than yours.” Our time is finite, so why should we waste it dwelling on those ‘what-ifs’, or the ‘I wish I hads.’ Learn to love yourz… your family, your friends, your life, and most importantly yourself.

We should all be proud of the young adults we’ve become, moulded by the overcrowded hallways of Sa-Hali and supported by the people who have helped us reach this moment. We are ready to take on the next step, wherever that may lead.

Congratulations, Class of 2025!!!!

Aydin - Thank you Mr. Collins.

Good afternoon everyone—family, friends, teachers, and most importantly, the incredible Logan Lake Secondary graduating class of 2025. It is a great honor and privilege to be up here with Nolan as co-Valedictorians.

Seventeen students. Just seventeen. Some might hear that number and think it’s small. But we know better. We know that in those seventeen are seventeen stories of grit, of growth, of late-night study sessions, early-morning alarms, last-minute project panics, unexpected laughter, and moments that have shaped who we are today.

Nolan - We’ve grown up together—not just side by side in classrooms, but through every challenge that’s come our way. Whether it was navigating the chaos of online classes, finding our footing again in a changing world, or just figuring out who we want to be, we did it together. And through it all, we’ve learned that resilience isn't just a word. It’s a mindset. It's getting back up when life knocks you down. It’s leaning on each other when things get hard. It’s choosing to keep going, even when the path forward isn’t clear.

We’ve learned that growth doesn’t always come with a certificate or a grade—sometimes it looks like showing up when you’d rather stay home, saying “I don’t get it” and asking for help, or standing up for someone else when it would’ve been easier to stay silent. We’ve become stronger not just because of what we’ve accomplished, but because of what we’ve overcome.

Aydin - To our teachers—thank you for believing in us even on the days when we didn’t believe in ourselves. You’ve given us more than knowledge; you’ve given us your patience, your encouragement, and your time.

Nolan - To our families—you’ve been our foundation. Thank you for lifting us up, for every ride, every reminder, every late-night pep talk. We wouldn't be here without your love.

And to our classmates—thank you for being part of a journey we’ll never forget. Each of you has left a mark on this place and on our lives. We may be few in number, but we are mighty. And I believe that every single one of us is leaving here ready to make a difference, no matter where we go.

Aydin - Today, we also hold space for those who aren't standing with us physically but will always be part of our class and our hearts. We remember them with love, with gratitude, and with the quiet strength they left behind. Their stories, their laughter, and their spirit remain woven into who we are. And as we move forward, we carry them with us—always.

The road ahead won’t always be easy. But then again, neither was the road behind us—and we made it. So let’s carry with us everything we’ve learned here: how to persevere, how to grow, and how to lift each other up. And let’s meet the future not with fear, but with hope. Because if there’s one thing this class has proven, it’s that we are ready.

Both - Congratulations, Grad Class of 2025. We did it.

I’ll be honest, going into grade 8, I thought the next five years were going to be like the movie High School Musical… let's just say I was brutally disappointed. We were thrown into high school with no orientation, no clue what anyone looked like, and worst of all, had 2 and a half hour double blocks EVERY SINGLE DAY? I remember thinking to myself “Oh boy, this is going to be the longest five years of my life!” but look at us now. Somehow we kept showing up. All those late night study sessions, early mornings, treacherous assignments we procrastinated but did anyways, have finally paid off.

Good afternoon, staff, family, friends, and most importantly fellow graduates.

We know it's hot in here so we’ll try to keep it short.

My name is Claire Fessenden and my name is Sadie Baker and we’re honoured to be standing here today as your Valedictorians, representing the incredible Class of 2025.

Getting here was a different journey for everyone. Let’s be real. Some of us were on a mission to outdo ourselves every time, and then there were those who simply showed up, and that was enough. But if you’re sitting here in a cap and gown, it means you didn’t give up. And that’s what matters. Because successful isn’t just about talent. It’s about grit. Grit is waking up and going to school even when it's hard. Grit is walking into math class again after bombing the last quiz. Grit is wearing uncomfortable rubber goggles on your face every day. Grit is choosing to try, even when you’d rather quit. And nothing taught us that better than high school.

It wasn’t easy, but the support from others is what made high school a little easier. Graduation isn’t just a goodbye to each other, it’s also a thank you. To the people who stayed after class to help us with questions, made us breakfast in the morning, provided a shoulder to cry on, and made high school bearable. Because of the support of you, our parents, friends, teachers, and everybody in between, we didn’t just survive, we thrived.

In the beginning of writing this speech, we asked the grads, “what makes our grad class so special? Almost everyone's response was the fact that “we’re all so different, but we still get along like family."

It’s true. Throughout high school, we each had a different story. We all had different classes, different friend groups and different struggles, but what makes this class special is that we never let those differences divide us. We showed up for one another, celebrated one another, respected one another, and that is what got us to where we are right now.

My Mom always tells me, “People won’t remember your test scores, or that “bad hair day” you had, what they will remember is how you made them feel. And she's right. We might forget the Pythagorean theorem (cause I know I have), but we won’t forget the people who made us feel like we belonged.

And that’s what makes our class memorable.

Right now high school may feel like our whole life, because it is, 7 hours a day, 5 days a week, for the past 5 years. But by the time we’re 80, it will make up less than 6% of our lives. Who you were in high school does not define who you are going to be. You are not your GPA, your mistakes, or your awkward moments. As cliche as it sounds, you are a story still being written. And this is just the first chapter.

This part of life isn’t about having the answers, it's about having the courage to keep going when you don’t. This time is for figuring out who you are and who you want to be. Slow down and enjoy it. Embrace the chaos, the challenges, the people, and the journey. In times of uncertainty, remember that grit will get you started and kindness will take you further than you ever imagined. So wherever life takes you next, hold onto kindness like a compass, because it will always point you in the right direction.

Some of us will miss these halls, others are already halfway out the door. Whether you're entering post-secondary, starting work, or still figuring it out, remember what got you here. Show up. Try again. Be kind. And when life gets tough… find that dog in you.

Thank you.

Welcome fellow graduates, faculty, administrative staff, friends, and family.

Through stressful exams, uneven group projects, and countless last-minute submissions, we’ve earned this moment—not just for who we are today, but for the younger versions of ourselves who dreamed of being here. Over the past decade and a half, we’ve all worked toward this shared goal. And now, we’ve arrived.

Every single one of us is feeling a mix of emotions—excitement, nostalgia, maybe even a bit of disbelief. We've grown up together. We’ve made it through long nights, early mornings, and yes, even a global pandemic. And now, each of us stands ready to take our next step—whether that’s university, the trades, the workforce, a gap year, or something entirely new.

As the band Green Day once put it:

“Another turning point, a fork stuck in the road. Time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go. So make the best of this test, and don't ask why. It's not a question, but a lesson learned in time. It's something unpredictable. But in the end, it's right. I hope you had the time of your life.”

To our fellow graduates—what do we say to you now?

Together, we’ve lived through highs and lows, laughter and tears, success and setbacks. We didn’t just learn from textbooks—we learned from each other. Through shared challenges, we shaped one another’s stories. Even when the world felt uncertain, we stayed resilient. We discovered that change is constant, and that adaptation is our superpower.

As we go forward, let’s carry those lessons—and these friendships—with us. Because in the end, those moments are what truly define our high school experience.

On behalf of the graduating class of 2025, we want to give special thanks to the people who helped us reach this milestone.

To our teachers, counselors, coaches, secretaries, librarian, vice-principal, and principal—thank you for your support, patience, and commitment. You challenged us to think, grow, and become more than we thought we could be. Your impact will stay with us far beyond these walls.

And to our families and friends—thank you for your love and belief in us, even when we forgot to believe in ourselves.

It’s been unpredictable. It hasn’t always been easy. But in the end, it’s right.

Congratulations, Class of 2025.

Let’s go show the world who we are.

Are we missing something?

Oh yeah:

Congratulations to our graduating class of 2025!

Good evening parents, staff, esteemed guests, community members, and fellow grads. I’m incredibly honoured, and extremely overwhelmed to be speaking on behalf of C.S.S’s graduating class of 2025.

Grads, miraculously, we’ve made it. It was nothing like High School Musical, but we made it anyway. Today is the culmination of all of our hardwork - our blood, sweat, and many tears. These past five years have seen joy and anguish, mistakes and failures, an inordinate amount of indoor track meets, and at the end of the day, success. While parting is such sweet sorrow, I would like to say a few words, if you please.

First, of course, some thank yous are in order. To the staff here at CSS: for putting up with us for so long, I’m not sure how you managed it, because I can barely do it myself. To our teachers: also for putting up with us, but mostly for all your dedication to our learning, as well as the support and wisdom you’ve provided to us throughout our high school years. To our wonderful community: for providing an honestly absurd level of support to our school over the years. To our fantastic student council for organizing our dances and games, the start of many nostalgic memories from tenth to twelfth grade - Sienna and Miley, I’m looking at you. To our friends: for the brightness that you’ve brought to our lives, and the amazing memories we’ve had. Finally, thank you to our parents and family: for feeding, clothing, raising, and loving us for roughly 18 years now. Without your guidance and care, we wouldn’t have made it to this stage today.

Naturally, this wouldn’t be a valedictorian speech without a little existential crisis. Sitting here today, I see a group of kids who I’ve known for my whole life, a group of people who are about to move on to their next grand adventure - which is completely paralyzing, if I’m being honest. Many of us are about to move away from home, away from a life we’ve grown used to for the past 18 years, and it’s only natural to be a little bit terrified of that sort of change. The leap is a vast one to make, but regardless if you’re ready or not, you’ll have to make it at some point. As the great Lemony Snicket said, “If we wait until we’re ready, we’ll be waiting for the rest of our lives.” And I believe that, regardless of how petrifying the change is going to be, each and every one of our graduates is capable of making it through. We brute-forced our way through- as they called it -"unprecedented times,” and we’ve made it all the way to graduation despite it all!

F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote in The Great Gatsby: “Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall,” and for us that has never been more true. The future is upon us now, and fellow grads, I see that future in each of you. I see passions that will drive you to change not just your lives, but the lives of people around you for the better. I wish you all the best in the upcoming fall and beyond, and remember, grads, that history has its eyes on you.