Although they graduated from an educational path that describes its learning programming as alternative, the graduation ceremony for the Grade 12 students leaving Lac La Biche Regional Outreach Schools this year was as conventional as any recent COVID convocation could be.
A balloon arch, certificates, grad photos, well-wishes from teachers and staff, and family cheers were part of a busy Friday afternoon for 12 graduates from the Lac La Biche Outreach School and Journey's Learning Academy at the Kikino Metis Settlement.
The outdoor event was held on June 18 in the Lac La Biche Outreach Schools front parking area, with lots of room for photos and celebrations.
A third outreach school, Crossroads Outreach School at the Buffalo Lake Metis Settlement, also offers alternative learning for Grade 9-12 students, but didn't have students in their Grade 12 program this year.
The Lac La Biche Regional Outreach Schools program is a part of Northern Lights Public Schools and offers an alternative learning environment for Grade 9-12 students who cannot or chose not to complete their education in a traditional setting. The programming at the schools offers some flexible scheduling and holistic learning that touches on life skills, work projects, recreation and counselling while the students follow an approved curriculum.