Sixteen students from Ashern Central School marked the end of their high school years on Saturday with a graduation ceremony filled with reflection, gratitude and a sense of possibility for what comes next.
Held inside the school hall on a sunny June afternoon, the event brought together family, friends, teachers and community members to recognize the achievements of the class of 2025—a close-knit group whose final years were shaped by personal growth and shared experiences.
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Principal Tracey Kinkead opened the ceremony by congratulating the students and reflecting on their journey.
“Graduation day is one of those special transition points in life,” she said. “It’s an ending to familiar routines, places and relationships, and it’s a beginning for what all those things will next become.”
Kinkead noted the significance of graduating alongside the students—having started her job at Ashern Central the same year they entered high school, while also working toward another degree.
“Some of you are going on to post-secondary next year, and some of you are not yet decided. I want you to remember that there’s no right or wrong time to add to your education.”
She encouraged the graduates to embrace uncertainty as they move forward.
“It’s a moment where you stand at the edge of what you know, and a new unknown path,” she said. “It reminds me of watching a child step on an escalator for the first time… Caught between bravery and doubt. Excitement and reluctance.”
She reminded them that discomfort often signals growth and opportunity.
“Some of the best things come from plans that didn’t work out. Some of the greatest opportunities show up in ways you don’t expect—but only if you’re open to seeing them and willing to risk trying.”
Kinkead also spoke about the diverse interests and goals among the graduates, from health care and trades to social services and the arts.
“These last four years you’ve spent with us have been a foundation to prepare you for what’s next,” she said. “Whatever that learning will be has now become fully yours to choose.”
Before closing, she thanked the families, staff and supporters who helped guide the students to this milestone.
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“Knowing your hand is still there, when needed, can make all the difference,” she said. “And one last bit of advice as you take this next big step: Remember—an escalator can never be broken. It can only turn into stairs. So if you feel stuck somewhere along the way… just start walking… and I promise you’ll get there.”
Valedictorians Riley Oswald and Tanas Rawluk then addressed the crowd, offering a mix of humour and heartfelt thanks.
“It’s truly an honour to stand here today and share this special moment with all of you,” said Rawluk. “Today marks the finale of years of hard work, late-night study sessions and countless memories that have shaped us into who we are.”
Oswald reflected on the class’s shared experiences, including sports like hockey, golf and badminton, and a school trip to Europe alongside teachers Mrs. Bjornson and Mr. McPhearson.
Rawluk recalled ski trips, English class videos and field trips to Winnipeg to see live theatre and visit The Forks.
“The 16 of us standing on this stage today have achieved something incredible, but we couldn’t have done it without the help of the people in our lives,” said Oswald.
They offered thanks to families for their constant encouragement.
“Your unwavering support, encouragement and guidance have helped us reach this milestone,” said Rawluk. “We’re incredibly grateful for the sacrifices you’ve made and the love you’ve shown.”
Oswald acknowledged the road ahead may bring setbacks, but urged classmates to stay resilient.
“Our plans will go awry, we may struggle, and we will all make countless mistakes,” he said. “But instead of giving up or succumbing to hopelessness, my hope is that we always find the strength within ourselves to keep trying.”
Rawluk closed the speech with a message for the future.
“My hope is that each and every one of us finds success not just in our careers, but in our happiness and fulfillment. Good luck to the class of 2025.”
Following the speeches, the graduates joined the audience to watch a farewell video created by teachers and students, offering personal messages and well-wishes.
At the end of the ceremony, awards were presented by Kinkead, including the Governor General’s Academic Medal for the highest average, which went to valedictorian Riley Oswald. Oswald also received the Lakeshore School Division Proficiency Award.
Special guest Jay Ruchotzke of Snoman Manitoba presented graduate Trinity Tindal with a $1,000 scholarship on stage.
Sports awards were also handed out, with Chanelle Sumner named top female athlete and Torger Bjornson top male athlete. Academic achievement awards with monetary value were presented to Troy Anderson for Essential Math 40S and Breanna Taylor for ELA Transactional Focus 40S.
With help from the Grade 11 class, the grads decorated the hall for the ceremony, dinner and SAFE Grad celebration. During the dinner, Miss Clow shared classroom memories, while Riley’s mother, Joël Oswald, spoke about the experience of watching children grow and transition into new chapters of life.
