École St. Mary High School's class of 2020 was featured in a virtual celebration. (YouTube/École St. Mary High School)

By paNOW Staff

École St. Mary High School graduates thrive through pandemic

Jun 29, 2020 | 12:49 PM

Graduates from the class of 2020 at École St. Mary High School gathered virtually to celebrate their accomplishments over the last 13 years.

A pre-recorded video captured the moment each student walked across the stage and moved the tassels on their caps to symbolize the requirements they earned to graduate.

The ceremony produced by school staff featured a performance by the band and choir program and speeches from administration, Premier Scott Moe, Prince Albert Mayor Greg Dionne and others including Roman Catholic Diocese of Prince Albert Bishop Albert Thévenot.

“As you leave St. Mary’s, always be happy. Choose areas where you’re going to be happy. One that not only makes you smile, but one that radiates through your heart,” Thévenot said. “During COVID-19, keep your social distance but your hearts close to one another.”

Caleb Hammond was the class valedictorian. (YouTube/École St. Mary High School)

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Following the presentation of academic medals and bursaries, this year’s class valedictorian took the stage. Caleb Hammond began his speech with some good natured humour and ‘thank you’ to the parents and guardians of the graduates.

“Thank you for helping us with our homework even though you use an ancient version of math. Thank you for risking your lives helping us learn how to parallel park,” Hammond said.

He acknowledged the challenges students faced because of the current pandemic but said he and his fellow students made the most out of quarantine by signing up for online classes, learning a new skill or even finding employment.

“I’m certain that the grads of 2020 will not only survive, but thrive against whatever challenges come our way.”

Hammond also spoke about another particular challenge – social media. He said on a daily basis, the world is confronted with new information about the coronavirus, climate change, politics or other social injustices in the world and being bombarded with information and misinformation at a tremendous volume poses a new problem in learning how to separate fact from fiction.

Referencing a speech from activist and politician Nelson Mandela thirty years ago, Hammond said education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.

“So graduates, when we are faced with uncertainty and an overwhelming amount of opinions, I am confident St. Mary’s has given us the weapon of education that will help separate fact from fiction and help us find solace in that which is left unknown.”

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panews@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @princealbertnow