St. Michael's Graduating Class of 2013

St. Michael's 2013 Graduating Class
C. Davis photos

Chris Davis, Pincher Creek Voice

St. Michael's School in Pincher Creek held their 2013 Commencement Celebration on Friday, May 10.  The ceremonies were held in the Dale Wentz Memorial Gymnasium at the school, which was packed with family, friends and well wishers.

Graduands with their dates

Principal Mr. Don Kuchison acted as the Master of Ceremonies for the event.  Special guests and speakers included Katelynn Russel-Waye who sang 'O Canada' and prepared the slide show with fellow graduand Elise Wocknitz, Superintendent Chris Smeaton, School Trustee David DeCock, and Teacher Tyler Speelman.

"There is always anticipation of the unknown to come, a few nerves, and some pauses to reflect on where you are going, and where you've been," said Superintendent Smeaton in his Greeting.  

"All of you have been loved and supported by your parents, families and the staff of this school.  While some of you may have a clear path to your future, it's okay if you don't."  He encouraged the graduands to follow their passions and their dreams and emphasized the importance of charity, service, tolerance, compassion, understanding, hope and love.

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Physical Education teacher Mr. Tyler Speelman provided a series of humorous anecdotes and recollections of the class as he saw them growing up.  Then Vice Principal Tina DeLinte presided over handing out the Graduation Certificates.

Mr. David DeCock addressed the class on behalf of the Holy Spirit Roman Catholic Separate School Board Trustees, becoming ethical citizens his predominant theme.

Principal Kuchison said there were three traits that first attracted him to St. Michael's School, its "Strong tradition of academic excellence, deep ties to the Catholic faith, and pride in identity."

Graduand Michael Roy and Will Thorpe enlivened the proceedings with their witty class prophecies.  It fell to Graduand Braden Barber to give the Teacher Tribute on behalf of his classmates.  "Not only have they spent countless hours teaching us acedemics, they have also taught us leadership."

The event closed with the Valedictory Address by Ms. Elise Wocknitz and a family dance.

St. Michael's Graduating Class of 2013

Braden Barber

Nathan Bruder

Catherine DeCock

Janelle Downing-Baker

Erica East

Kory Geddes

Brandon Morgan

Charissa Morgan

Jared Pittman

Kelli Potts

Trey Provost

Gabriel Rainford

Michael Roy

Katelynn Russell-Waye

Will Thorpe

Elise Wocknitz

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2013 Livingstone School Graduation