ST. PAUL - It was a year to remember for the graduating class of 2021 from St. Paul Regional High School. The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a school year that was unlike any other, filled with shifting public health measures that often affected things in and out of the classroom.
But, students walked proud into the school’s gymnasium on Friday. Dressed in gowns and suits, they were able to celebrate their high school graduation alongside one another, separated into cohorts – while friends, family and even parents watched from a distance via live stream.
The St. Paul Regional High School valedictorian for 2021 was Ehlam Iftikhar. She delivered a speech filled with humour, advice, and thankfulness. Iftikhar received the honour of valedictorian not only for her academic achievements, but also her work in the community.
“We are here today because we surpassed big challenges," said Iftikhar to her classmates. But, the achievement was not accomplished by the graduates on their own.
She thanked the families and others who helped youth blossom into young adults, along with the staff at St. Paul Regional High School.
"We will forever cherish the special relationships," said Iftikhar.
“On March 15, 2020, bam! We were on lockdown," she recalled, noting the pandemic has been terrible for many. But, it did bring to life a few positives, such as respecting people’s personal bubbles and affirming the importance of always washing your hands after going to the washroom, said Iftikhar, receiving chuckles from her classmates.
On a more serious note, “It has taught me the value of relationships," said Iftikhar. She admitted that when the pandemic first hit, she buried herself in school work, focusing on academics alone.
“I had pushed everyone away from my life,” she said. And while she was happy to receive the honour of being named valedictorian, the process to get there made her realized the importance of keeping balance in her life. She said COVID made her cognizant of the mistakes she made, and the importance of relationships.
She encouraged classmates to "live int he moment" and surround themselves with people who love and care about them. Don’t be focused on solely climbing the corporate ladder, she added.
A number of staff messages were also delivered via video. Assistant Principal Corey deMoissac commended the class for preserving through some of the toughest times. And noted that now they will be able to take on any challenge.
Fellow assistant principal Angela Noel acknowledged graduates for their resilience and strength and told them to be proud of everything they've done.
St. Paul Education vice chair Justin Anderson offered a short message, describing the past school year as “a year like no other," and offering graduates all the best in their next chapter. Saddle Lake Cree Nation leadership also offered congratulations through a written letter.
Each year, the graduating class hands down the Key of Success award to a Grade 11 student. This year's recipient was Colin Pasitney.
The Citizenship Award is also presented each year at the St. Paul Regional High School graduation, honouring one Grade 12 student for his or her outstanding characteristics, leadership, volunteer work, and community involvement. While many students fit the description, one student did excel.
Ravessa Fejzullai has been involved in local FCSS events, she emceed school events, was often seen helping others, and always had a big smile and positive attitude, and was this year's recipient for the Citizenship Award.
Throughout the afternoon celebration, as students were handed their graduation portfolios, audio messages were delivered from each of the graduates' families and support network, along with messages from the school recalling favourite moments and other memories. The addition of the messages offered a personal touch to a one-of-a-kind event.
After the ceremony wrapped up, students exited the school in cohorts and met with their families and friends outside for photos and further congratulations.
