Wiesner said he saw the incredible results of the years spent at Boissevain School, the work of the students, staff, friends and family.
“Remember the lessons that you learned here, inside and outside the classroom. The knowledge you have gained, the skills you have developed and the resilience you have cultivated will serve as the foundation as you step out into the world.”
He told the class to embrace their experiences, to continue to learn, and always remember the wisdom gained in their school and community.
“Go out to the world with confidence, make a positive account, and never forget the people, school and community that supported you every step of the way,” he added.
Bringing greetings from the TMSD Board, Karen Wear said graduation was a significant milestone. Students had worked tirelessly through every study season and every group project, which contributed to their place on the stage. Graduation was not just a ceremony, she stated, but a marker of all of that hard work. The future was beckoning.
“You will face challenges, and emerge stronger,” Wear said. “You have discovered your passion and purpose. Each of you is a unique thread in the fabric of our community. You have different dreams and aspirations, but you share a common bond. Wherever your aspirations lie after graduation, embrace your ability and shape your future.”
She added the graduates should not fear failure, as that is a stepping-stone to success. The community had every confidence in them, Wear said.
Students were given their class awards for highest grades, and nine graduates made the honour roll this year at the different levels. As well, the community, through businesses, organizations and unions, contributed to the students’ future through the generous donations we have become accustomed to.
Class representatives Easton Polnik and Mateo Leiner brought greetings from the 2025 group. They spoke of the years they spent with each other, some longer than others. Memories were shared of their times in the school and their teachers. Although they had only been in high school for four years, they had all grown tremendously in that time. They thanked everyone who had a hand in the day they were celebrating, including parents and teachers, particularly for their patience and kindness. They did not just shape their lives, they shaped what they would become.
Before those futures come, they were able to take a look at their pasts. A video presentation showed the members in their different levels of development, from babies to graduates. There were puppies, Halloween costumes, dirt bikes and sports uniforms, a great look at the years gone by.
A new and welcome addition this year was the inclusion of a special celebration of the Métis students, of which there were nine in the class. Each received a ceremonial sash and a gift bag including a traditional slingshot. Manitoba Métis Federation Housing and Property Management, and Identity Protection and Inter-Indigenous Relations Minister Will Goodon, and local Elders Elaine Scott and Barb Desjardins brought greetings to all of the graduates.
Goodon congratulated all of the grads, and remembered his own graduation. He said they were trying to bring back the traditions of the Métis and pride in their nation. There was once shame associated with their heritage, but that has changed. He said there is a lot more work to be done, but where we were as a society versus where we are now is a completely different world.
He said there were two things he wanted to leave the graduates. One was not to wait for events to happen, but to make them happen. The second was to listen to the elders.
“Listen to the people who have been there before,” Goodon stated. “In our culture, our Métis elders are respected but I think that goes along all cultural lines. Listen to your granny, listen to your grandpa, listen to your aunties and uncles. Trust me, you will learn things that will be with you for the rest of your life.”
Desjardin said the graduates would remember their lessons and experiences that have made them into the people they are today. She said the world needs their unique perspective, creativity and passion.
“Do not be afraid to take risks, to challenge yourself and to pursue your dreams,” Desjardins explained. “As you go forth remember that success is not solely defined by achievements, but by the positive impact you have on others. Be kind, be passionate, and be open to learning from those around you. Your journey in high school has been a journey of hope, self-discovery and friendship.”
“Trust in your journey, have faith in yourself. Congratulations to all the grads. The world awaits your brilliance, your energy and your commitment to making a difference.”
Scott said high school graduation is not the end, but the beginning of the next stage.
As the graduates left the auditorium and moved to the next phase of their lives, they perhaps heard Barb Desjardins’ words in their ears.
“Trust in your journey, have faith in yourself.”
by PAUL RAYNER
Recorder staff