Graduation Day at SLHS

Oct 13, 2011

Photo: 2011 SLHS Valedictorian, Kaitlyn Hannah

Amid countless shout outs of “I love you”, and photo ops taken by family and friends, Sharbot Lake High School graduates of the 2011 school year received their proper due at the school cafeteria on October 7, where there was standing room only. Kaitlyn Hannah, who is currently attending Ottawa University, was chosen as this year’s valedictorian. An ardent reader and writer, Kaitlyn was honoured with numerous awards and bursaries during the evening, including the school’s Writer of the Year Award. She was also recognized for her work on student council as well as on the 30-Hour Famine, Remembrance Day, and the students’ social justice committees. Kaitlyn was also active with the Student Vote movement. SLHS teacher Lorraine Ryan introduced her as an example of “Finding your passion and doing it well, keeping your individuality while creating a community of support.”

Kaitlyn had the final word of the evening and her humble and humorous speech invoked the memorable journey that students take, from fledgling grade nine newbies to confident, aspiring graduates entering the world that awaits them.

“These are definitely the most formative years of our lives and it is here that we find out who we are and where we want to go,” she said. She spoke of the intimacy of the small high school where one teacher can teach you three classes and coach you on a team: “Where you have had at least one long conversation with every student in the school and where our motto -'We are family' is completely true.” She spoke of the memorable school trips, the school dances and the way the students banded together over the years to help those in need. She also spoke of the diverse skills and talents of each of her classmates and how these varied skills will help to serve them in their upcoming years. In closing, she left the students with a few words of advice. “1. Strive to be like Mr. McVety in every way possible. In so doing, you'll be sure to succeed. 2. Always remember the people that you met in high school and don't let those friendships die. 3. Don't work too hard - life is short, have fun.” Finally she said, “Graduation is not the end, it is the beginning.”

Fitting words indeed. Congratulations to all of the graduates.