119 students bid farewell to Chateauguay Valley Regional High School on Sunday, June 21st in Ormstown. The high school, which is responsible for the education of approximately 650 students from the surrounding area, handed the graduating students their diplomas this past weekend.
This graduation year marks the 30th Anniversary of the CVR Education Foundation. Since its inception, it has contributed over $472,000 to qualifying students in the form of scholarships, bursaries, awards and prizes to aid in the pursuit of their post-secondary studies. The contributions range from $250 to $10,000, which goes to ensure that various students are recognized within the school. This year saw the donation of $50,500 in prizes to students. The selection of the students who receive scholarships is based on an average of the grades received within compulsory courses set forth by the Ministry of Education—the ministry also considers the highest marks in optional courses.
The honour of valedictorian was bestowed upon Callan Forrester, a student who was highly involved with the school’s performing arts program. Her valedictory address was inspired by French poet and philosopher Francois Rabelais’ quote “I go to seek the Great Perhaps.” The honour student was also the recipient of one of the Ness bursaries, and received one of the awards for her contribution to school life (the Student Leadership Award for Contribution to School Life).
Major award winners included Marie-Odyle Gosselin, who was awarded The Maureen Wahba Memorial Scholarship for being the student with the third highest academic achievement. The J. David Aikman Memorial Scholarship and the Birks Bronze Medal for the student with the second highest academic achievement were presented to Catherine Archambault. Shannon Caza, who achieved the highest academic standing of the graduating class, was awarded The Reverend John (Jack) C.T. Johnson Memorial Scholarship, the Birks Silver Medal and Reeves Scholarship.
The Lloyd H. Adamson Prize, which is awarded to the student best exemplifying the spirit of CVR was presented to Sophie Patenaude.
While the efforts that the students put forth during their time at the high school is paramount, Principal Brigitte Barrette also noted the importance of supportive parents. “I thank the parents,” she said during an interview following the ceremony. “The parents are our most valuable partners. Because of their involvement, students are successful.” She also thanked the community partners and the various committees and staff working inside the school, explaining that “Education is a collaborative effort between many partners.”
The principal’s address to the students included a touching speech. She had this message for the graduating of class 2015: “Continue your ascension and believe in yourself,” she said. “It’s not the mountain that we conquer, but rather ourselves. Believe in your dreams and make your vision come alive.”
Congratulations to the Class of 2015!
