It was a momentous day to remember for the 2024 graduating class of St. Laurent School.
On Wednesday, June 26, a crowd of community members gathered to pay tribute to the school’s 16 graduates.
Principal Bobby Ellis welcomed friends, family and staff members who came out to support the students during their milestone moment.
He also recognized the unexpected challenges the class faced during the pandemic, yet they persevered with resilience and determination.
“Your high school journey was disrupted by remote learning and drastic changes to everyday school life — from the ending of sports and extracurricular activities to alterations in meal programs and classroom settings,” Ellis said.
“Despite these obstacles, you have excelled and demonstrated immense strength in overcoming these hurdles — a truly remarkable feat that will be remembered in the annals of history as we reflect on this era and learn from it.”
Looking ahead to the next stage of life, Ellis reminded the grads that high school is an important phase — but it’s only the beginning of their larger journey into adulthood.
“When most people think of school and the education system, they often go straight to academics. But education is about more than academics; it’s about preparing you to be successful, contributing members of society,” he said.
“Each of you have proven your resilience and commitment, and you’re well prepared to lead fulfilling and prosperous lives.”
Bringing greetings from the school board for Prairie Rose School Division, trustee Jean Gurr offered a heartfelt reflection on the many stages of life, each filled with their own choices and consequences.
After that, valedictorians Tyrell Jolicoeur and Emma Futros shared gratitude for the guidance and dedication of their teachers and support staff. They also thanked friends and families for being their biggest cheerleaders through all the ups and downs.
“As we stand here today, we remember the challenges we faced and the lessons we learned,” they told the crowd.
“There were times when we struggled and felt uncertain, but those moments taught us resilience and determination. We learned that failure is not the end but an opportunity to grow and improve.”
The valedictorians acknowledged the important friendships and experiences shared over the years.
“These memories will stay with us for a lifetime, and the bonds we have formed will continue to be a source of support and joy,” they said.
“Looking ahead, we are stepping into a world filled with endless possibilities and opportunities. It may be daunting, but we are well prepared. Our education has equipped us with the tools we need to succeed and make a positive impact. We have the power to shape our future.”
They encouraged their fellow graduates to stay curious, seek knowledge and approach life with an open mind and compassionate heart.
“Believe in yourselves and your abilities. You have already accomplished so much, and there is so much more you can achieve. The future is bright, and it is yours to shape.”
With a personalized approach, vice-principal Shane Buck shared some individual sentiments with each grad, reflecting on characteristics that make them special and unique.
“Grads, as you stand at this remarkable juncture, your collective journey has been marked by determination and unity. You have accomplished so much to reach this point, yet this journey has not been solely yours alone,” Buck said.
“We must also extend our heartfelt gratitude to those who have supported you along the way — those trusted individuals who have been your pillars of strength.”
The students’ hard work is evident in the long list of scholarships, bursaries and awards they received — including the Governor General’s Award earned by Kaydin McKay, who had an average of 88 per cent.
“Continue striving for excellence, stay true to who you are and, above all, keep fostering a sense of empathy and care for everyone you encounter,” Buck told the graduates.
“Congratulations to our graduating class of 2024.”
In parting words from the principal, Ellis encouraged the grads to carry forward the lessons they’ve learned and the experiences they’ve gathered.
“As you step into the world beyond these walls, let curiosity guide your path. Embrace every challenge as an opportunity to grow and every success as a stepping stone to your next adventure. Never cease to ask, to learn and to strive for a better understanding of the world around you,” he said.
“Congratulations, graduates, on your remarkable achievements. May your futures be filled with endless possibilities and unyielding courage to pursue your dreams.”
Tribune Photos by Lori Combot
