Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. This is the time of year for our graduations. The Thomas Simpson School in Fort Simpson is holding theirs this weekend and I’m proud to be attending, to wish our students well into the future. There will be 14 students attending graduation ceremonies in Fort Simpson and in the community of Fort Liard, six.
These students are to be congratulated because they have worked very hard to complete their high school requirements. This can be especially challenging in a small community with few library resources and fewer teachers and students to study and share learning. I think today, however, the Internet has given students in remote communities a leg up in this learning.
More than the Internet, though, it is the teachers, principals, superintendents, and other school staff who deserve recognition for the work they have done to teach and support these students. In last week’s Deh Cho Drum there was a report on two activities, one at the Thomas Simpson School, a motivational presentation called Turtle Camp and talks about careers with Aurora College in mining, oil, and gas, by volunteers Mr. Wilbert Antoine and Mr. Bob Norwegian.
I also have to commend the community for all the activities it has been involved in to give the young people opportunities. They have had the opportunity to participate, gain confidence, and learn new skills in many school and community events. I’m referring to activities like learning to play an instrument at the Kole Crook Fiddle Camp and fun competitions at the Beavertail Jamboree.
And, of course, we cannot forget the support from families. It is time for parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles to be proud of their graduates.
Finally, I’d like again to congratulate every student. This is just the beginning. I look forward to seeing their future accomplishments in education and at the workplace. I wish them well and hope they enjoy their lives in whatever path of lifelong learning they take.