When Randy Kerr, Tisdale Middle & Secondary School’s principal, was trying to characterize the class of 2017 – like he does for every graduating class – he had a difficult time.
“It was hard because they’re so quiet and just go about doing their business, but I’ve come to the conclusion that in essence, this group is the perfect graduating class for in the year Canada’s celebrating 150 years,” he said. “They exemplify Canadians. They’re resilient, they’re driven and they go about things in a really nice, quiet, pleasant demeanour. That sums them up.”
The principal said the 60 graduates, weren’t the extraverted and in-your-face type.
“They just get down to business, go about it in a really respectful, pleasant way and get things done,” he said. “The presence that they brought into our school over the last few years is going to be sorely missed.”
The graduation ceremony was held June 29, after the grads dined at a banquet.
Eriq Marleau was one of the two valedictorians of the class of 2017.
“More than anything, we’re a really diverse class. There’s a little bit of everything. If you have an interest in something, I guarantee somebody in this class will have it.”
Brayden Kirkland, the other valedictorian, agreed.
“They all worked very hard to get here and I just couldn’t be happier with the people I grew up with around here. They all come together and it’s going to be a good day.”
While Kirkland has gone to Tisdale schools since preschool, Marleau was a relatively new arrival
“I came here two years ago and I got welcomed into class immediately. There’s a lot of great people here. They’re all going off in all different directions and it’s pretty exciting.”
Both valedictorians said they were glad to finished school after 13 years of school.
“It’s a big relief,” Marleau said. “I get to move on with my life now. This is just the first part of my life and I have so much more to accomplish. It’s just nice to know that I’m done and I did it.”
“It’s liberating, it’s awesome,” Kirkland said. “It feels like all the hard work has paid off, it’s culminating in this awesome event. You just have to dress up, have fun with your family and friends, celebrate and enjoy starting the next chapter of our life.”
Kerr said in his parting speech, he’d give the same advice that he gives to all of his graduates: a good altitude is key to success, with life being 10 per cent what happens to you and 90 per cent how you react.
Marleau and Kirkland gave a mostly comedic speech, but they did wish their fellow students luck in the future.
“I hope to see everyone again 30 years down the road and have lots to talk about,” Kirkland said.
