Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to recognize academic excellence by all students across the Northwest Territories and particularly three students from Weledeh who have received the Minister's Award for Academic Excellence;

• • Miranda Bolstad received the award for attaining the highest mark in the Northwest Territories in 99-20 English 30 departmental exams;
• • Ivan Pelov received the same award for the highest mark in Chemistry 30; and
• • Matthew Voytilla received the same award for the highest mark in Physics 30.

We need to celebrate the achievement of these young people and express appreciation to all of those people who have provided support to them, especially the parents and teachers in our school system.

As our economy continues to flourish, we need strong academic performance by our Northwest Territories students so that they can take the jobs in the North. Let us all work together in support of healthy families and communities to ensure all northern students have a bright future in the Northwest Territories. Miranda, Matthew, and Ivan, I wish you much success in your continuing studies and look forward to when you return to careers in the North. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.