After a high school experience that involved reconnecting after online learning, the class of 2024 is a group that knows the value of being together. Kyle Zorniak, Lord Selkirk Regional Comprehensive Secondary School’s valedictorian, spoke to the Record about what it’s like to graduate as part of the class of 2024.
“We kind of came out of COVID into grade nine. That was weird because the relationships between students and staff were just kind of separated at that point. Because they were just kind of distant and then they got more real which has been nice. It’s been a good learning experience,” said Zorniak.
He describes grade ten like reconnecting to civilization after video games and online learning were the norm. From there, the rest of the grades became more normal with students hanging out.
“We got the grad fashion show going again this year. That was a fun fundraiser event that we got going because they didn’t have that for years,” he said.
As for Zorniak’s personal experience, in this last school year he was part of track and student council.
He plans to attend the University of Manitoba and is going to be studying the sciences but hasn’t yet made plans as to what specific career he’s going to pursue.
“I’m not really sure what I want to do. I’ll be running with the Bisons for track and field and cross country. That’ll be fun and exciting,” said Zorniak.
His favourite part of being a student at the Comp has been hanging out with his fellow students.
“[I enjoyed] being with people, meeting new people and finding a community to fit in with and enjoy people with similar interests,” said Zorniak.
He says, for the class of 2024, all of their experiences have been important in shaping them.
“We’re definitely leaving with lots of experiences, whether they’re good or bad. We’ll use the mistakes and [accomplishments] that we’ve earned to determine where we want to go because whether they’re good or bad, they shape who you are,” explained Zorniak.
His hopes for his classmates are that they all get to go into the world and be who they want to be.
“Enjoy everything that’s available and explore your options, because there are so many options now, for jobs and hobbies, activities and advantages. Just get out there and enjoy what you’re doing and find your place,” he said.
Zorniak also has some sound advice for next year’s grade nine students.
“Take a variety of classes, definitely join clubs and get involved. It may sound weird or odd because you’re probably leaving friends because they don’t want to join whatever it is you want to join but you’ll meet new people there and you find a community. Especially as grade ten comes to an end, think about what you are enjoying and think about planning your semesters a little bit so you can fit things in and don’t overload yourself,” he said.
