The Adult Basic Education students from Ocean Man First Nations were recognized for their academic achievements at a Celebration of Achievements on May 13th. This year's participants were: Kara Big Eagle,Kevin Big Eagle, Paige Big Eagle, Sheena Lonechild, Patricia Lonechild, Stephanie Haywayhe, Jessica Shepherd, Holly Eagle, Rodney Shepherd and Maeghan Trail.
Ocean Man Chief Gloria Shepherd gave the opening remarks saying in part "I am excited to celebrate with the band members here who have accomplished another rung in the ladder of success in education. The paths they have chosen to reach their goals through education is remarkable and every milestone is noteworthy of their accomplishment". "My heart is for the Ocean Man community to have a career path...the First Nations people have always had the philosophy of lifelong learning and I seek to raise the standard for our people to become self sufficient... a realistic and possible goal."
Chief Shepherd said the grace for the food and everyone enjoyed a meal of Indian tacos with fresh bannock.
The ABE teacher Cheryl Popplestone introduced the representatives from the SE Regional College in Weyburn, including Craig Brown the CEO, Brian Binns the ABE co-ordinator, and Jamie Mayoh-Bauche the counsellor for the program. Also present was Stoughton Legion president Raymond Coderre and his wife Karen. The ABE classes are held in the Legion Hall in Stoughton. Cpl. Andrew Knowles from the Fillmore RCMP attachment also attended as a guest.
In attendance were the following dignitaries: Chief Guy Lonechild of FSIN in Saskatoon,Tribal Chief Gilbert Panipekeesick from Yorkton Tribal Council, and Elaine Severight - Treaty 4 Education YTC. Ocean Man Housing Councillor Trevor Ewack, Connie Big Eagle - Ocean Man Education councillor, and Rod Atcheynum, the elders' co-ordinator from Sweet Grass First Nations North Battleford also attended.
Chief Lonechild extended his congratulations to the students, and in his address he recognized the proud and peaceful history of the Ocean Man peoples and acknowledged that "all of us, relying on each other is needed for our success."
Chief Panipekeesick spoke on the many obstacles First Nations young people have to overcome; the critical one being a lack of education. He commended "the community of Ocean Man, the instructors and leadership who stand behind their young people and have these celebrations to recognize accomplishment and help them achieve their goals."
In Connie Big Eagle's address she thanked the elders for their positive influence upon the youth and said children imitate the adults that they are influenced by.
Brian Binns made presentations to the two students receiving their Grade 10 high school certificates, namely Holly Eagle and Rodney Shepherd.
Jamie Mayoh-Bauche presented partial grade 12 certificates to: Kara Big Eagle,Kevin Big Eagle, Paige Big Eagle, Stephanie Haywayhe, Sheena Lonechild, Jessica Shepherd, Patricia Shepherd and Maeghan Trail. Craig Brown presented the college scholarships to Paige Big Eagle and Sheena Lonechild.
Connie Big Eagle filled in for instructor Clinton Bobb and presented the St. John Ambulance certificates to: Holly Eagle, Kara Big Eagle, Kevin Big Eagle, Sheena Lonechild, Rodney Shepherd and Cheryl Popplestone.
Attendance was also recognized with certificates handed out by Popplestone to the students with best actual (Holly Eagle) and adjusted (Paige Big Eagle and Sheena Lonechild) attendance records. The students were given several gifts from Ocean Man FN, FSIN and YTC.
The evening wrapped up with two huge delicious cakes served with coffee and juice. It was a great night of celebration. Way to go students!
