BONNYVILLE – Bonnyville Outreach School graduates walk across the stage during their celestial themed graduation at the Beaver River Fish and Game Association Hall on June 13.
Family, friends, and dignitaries joined the Bonnyville Outreach staff and graduates during the celebration.
Valedictorian Sage Hempel spoke about how special it was to get to attend Bonnyville Outreach. After struggling in the standard classroom environment, Hempel was encouraged to switch schools by her mother, who had also graduated through Bonnyville Outreach school.
“She told me, ‘This place saved me, and it can save you too’,” said Hempel.
Hempel said Bonnyville Outreach became a non-judgmental place for her to rebuild, and the supportive environment gave back her feeling of hope. She told the Outreach staff, “You made room for our dreams and lit the runway beneath our feet.”
Hempel addressed her fellow graduates, reminding them that their celestial theme is more than just pretty words.
“Reach for the stars means we keep rising, even when it’s hard – even when we have to take a different path. Look at us – we did it. This isn’t the end, it’s the launch,” said Hempel.
Principal Rose Lapoint commented on the leadership skills the graduates have and told them they have everything they need to go out into the world and shine.
“We also know that reaching for the stars isn't just about hope. It takes skill, courage, and character. The four words that we focused on - navigate, lead, overcome, succeed - are the tools you’ve been building along the way . . . You've earned this moment, not just because of the credits and the coursework, but because of everything that it took to get here.
Lapoint thanked the families, friends, and community partners whose “steady support” had a vital impact on the students’ success.
Dignitaries sent their congratulations and words of wisdom through recorded speeches and spoke about what an exciting time it was for the graduates.
Town of Bonnyville Mayor Elisa Brosseau spoke about the merits of resilience, strong work ethic, and a connection with one's roots.
“You're not just graduating, you're stepping into roles our town needs - people with fresh energy and big ideas. Many of you have grown up right here, running across our fields, walking these familiar streets, and lending a hand at community events. You are part of the very heart of our town – woven into our story,” said Brosseau.
The mayor encouraged the graduates not to wait to feel ready to make a difference, but to get out and start shaping the world.
Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul MLA Scott Cyr said it was his “incredible honour” to be able to offer graduates’ a heartfelt congratulations.
“This is a major milestone. You survived pop quizzes, final exams, and group projects . . . That takes great patience and probably more energy drinks than are medically advisable. But more importantly, you built something greater than a transcript. You built character, perseverance, and a foundation for the future, whatever that future brings . . . You know your community is proud of you, and so am I,” said Cyr.
