ARCOLA -— Arcola School celebrated the Class of 2025 during its annual graduation ceremony on May 16.
A trellis decorated with black and gold balloons was lit up, while the main lights were set dimly.
Each guest was welcomed and given a program and asked which graduate they were with.
Michael Callfas was the MC for the evening and Ron Wardrope, Arcola’s principal, did the land acknowledgement. Each graduate walked through the trellis and was introduced to the capacity crowd.
As they walked down the aisle to meet up with their parents, they held a red rose which was presented to their mother.
After a warm hug, they turned, had their photos taken and were then seated at the front of the hall.
The 10 graduating students came on stage and were introduced by Janine Houston, who said each of the graduates looked stunning in their suits and gowns.
Once the scrolls were presented, Jacquie Walbaum led the crowd with the singing of O Canada.
Chief Ira McArthur came to the stage and presented each student with a handmade star blanket that had the student's names and year of graduation. The star blanket represents honour, connection and protection. It is a symbolic gift which is given at special events. The star itself can symbolize the Creator’s eye, the Morning Star, or the eight points of life and direction.
Speeches were given by parents, teachers and students throughout the evening, with the valedictorian speech by Kayla Maitland. The guest speaker was Heather Saarela.
A slide show of the graduating class was presented from their younger days up until Grade 12.
As the graduating class of 2025 exited the hall, chairs were stacked, and the graduates returned for the dance.
