Farewell To Our Grads

This time of year is one of my favourite times of year, as we get to celebrate some of the accomplishments of our students at events such as the Year-End Awards Ceremony, the Grad Banquet, and Commencement. I know that I speak on behalf of the staff at Rockridge Secondary when I say that we will truly miss our graduates.

When I think back to the first day of school for our Grade 12 students this past September, I not only remember how well rested they looked and how enthusiastic they were to see each other and begin Grade 12, but how much their teachers were looking forward to working with all of them this school year.

What our grads may not know is that they have been regarded as being outstanding for a very long time, in fact, throughout their entire school career. I know this because I have looked through their elementary school report cards. On these report cards, their teachers have made many lovely comments including the following:

• You “continue to be an active participant during group discussions by listening to the opinions of others and contributing your own thoughtful ideas.”
• You “enjoy challenges and are eager to learn”
• You have “taken responsibility for yourself as a learner.”
  You “treat all members of your classroom in a kind, caring, and respectful manner. You have a strong sense of what is fair and deal with issues in a way that meets the needs of all involved.”
• You “continued to tap into your creativity both technologically and imaginatively.”
• You have “demonstrated a willingness to try new things and are comfortable taking risks in your learning.”
• You have “continued to be a confident leader in the classroom and in the school.”

After reading the comments made by their elementary school teachers, I am not surprised that they have played such an integral role in making Rockridge a vibrant place to learn. Some words that their Rockridge teachers have used to describe them both on their report cards and in conversation are confident, conscientious, accomplished, just, capable, imaginative, and caring. They have made us proud of their many academic, athletic, and artistic accomplishments. They have made significant contributions to others both locally and globally.
On behalf of the faculty and staff at Rockridge Secondary School, I congratulate each and everyone one of our grads on all of their accomplishments. As an unknown author said, “I hope your dreams take you to the corners of your smiles, to the highest of your hopes, to the windows of your opportunities, and to the most special places your heart has ever known.” To all of our graduates and families leaving Rockridge, I wish you all the very best in your future.
Best wishes to everyone for a fun, safe, and relaxing summer break.