Over a dozen vehicles of various shapes and sizes made their way through Shellbrook Friday as part of the graduation parade. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Time to celebrate

Shellbrook grad class celebrates in style

Jun 17, 2022 | 5:00 PM

Scores of proud parents and grandparents sat along Shellbrook’s Main Street Friday afternoon as a procession of brightly coloured vehicles rolled by.

The idea to have the parade for the graduating class was initially done in 2020, because there was no ability to have an actual in-person ceremony and the town wanted a way to honour its senior class. Despite restrictions being lifted, a decision was made this year to continue the tradition.

Cassidy Saam told paNOW she appreciated the gesture.

“It’s really nice just to let the community see all the grads and be able to see what we have accomplished,” she said.

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River Rudolph, who was riding in a bright green and black ATV, said he also liked the idea behind the parade.

“I just like it because the people that can’t go to the ceremony get to see all the grads and it just makes it more open to the community and everyone,” he said.

This year’s grad class spent half their high school career under health restrictions, sacrificing recreational activities and most importantly taking assignments and exams by way of online learning. Rielle Puddicombe acknowledged she did not think the day would come when she could have an actual celebration.

“Slowly as it was getting better, you could see the light at the end ot the tunnel and it was like maybe we’ll actually have a normal senior year,” she said.

Every vehicle and grad appeared to be unique in their design. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

Family members wave as the grads take a back seat. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

Golf carts, ATVs, trucks and even a bright purple camaro were among the vehicles of choice. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

As the procession turned the corner at the town’s rink, Lorna Thompson sat in a car watching. She has two grandsons graduating.

“I think [the parade] is awesome. For everyone to join in and see the kids and the way they are dressed up,” she said.

Following the parade, the grads made their way back to the high school to receive their diplomas. In addition to the parade, individual banners of each grad was hung along Main Street.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell