VILNA - The graduating class of 2021 from Vilna School held an honour that no other class from the school has ever held - they are the centennial class of the long-running school.
On Friday afternoon, the small group of graduates from Vilna School and Vilna Off-Campus Achievement Academy were recognized for their hard work. Vice principal Diane Padlesky emceed the ceremony, and recalled how she watched the students grow into the young adults they are now.
A number of messages were delivered virtually to graduates, and the ceremony was also live streamed to abide by public health measures that remain in place.
Aspen View Public Schools Superintendent Neil O'Shea delivered his video message, and told students one of the main notions he wanted to pass on to students was to remember where they came from.
He also encouraged students to make the world a better place, wherever they go.
"Make the world better for future generations," said O'Shea.
Aspen View Public Schools Trustee Donna Cherniwchan acknowledged that it had been a different year, "full of ups and downs." She also noted that while some of the graduates may already have a plan in place, others may not, and that's OK, and regardless, "Your future is bright."
She told graduates it was important that they surround themselves with supportive people and people who work hard. And, when they have the opportunity, to give back to their community.
A number of messages were also delivered to graduates in letter form, from a variety of leaders in the surrounding communities.
Village of Vilna Mayor Leo Chapdelaine wrote to students, telling them their high school graduation was just the beginning of a much larger journey.
"Anything is truly possible when you put your mind to it."
Valedictorian Caleb Krieg offered a few words to his classmates, and thanked a number of people. He offered thanks to his classmates, teachers and staff at the school, and each of the graduates' families.
As the ceremony wrapped up, students were reminded again how they have made history and will always be known as the centennial class of 2021.
The Vilna School graduating class is: Dakota Houle, Landin Jackson, Caleb Krieg, Eric Pirzek, and Jamie-Lynn Sheridan.
