Morris graduates seize the day and their dreams

Family, friends and community members gathered at the Morris School gymnasium on June 25 to celebrate a milestone in the lives of 40 students, who received their well-deserved high school diplomas.

In his address to the graduates, Principal Mike Watson said this was a day of joy, pride and reflection on their hard work, perseverance, and hours of dedication.

He also encouraged them to keep learning, long after their school days are behind them.

“As you step into the world beyond these walls and halls, it’s important to remember that graduating doesn’t mean that you need all the answers.”

Watson encouraged them to find their true purpose. “You can never be wrong by being in the service of others. The world needs your talents, your creativity, and your passion.”

Co-valedictorians Hana Mazinke and Molly Sanders said it was an honour to be chosen to speak on behalf of the Class of 2024.

They thanked their parents for standing by them.

“Your guys’ love, guidance, and encouragement have shaped us into who we are today,” Mazinke said.

She went on to thank the teachers for encouraging their imaginations to run wild and for letting their creativity flourish. “You reminded us to make the most of every opportunity and follow our own paths.”

Finally, she congratulated their fellow grads. “We know the road was full of ups and downs, but here we are – sitting in the spotlight, celebrating 13 years of hard work and perseverance.”

Sanders recalled how their journey together didn’t really start in high school, but back in Kindergarten, in the days of finger painting and recess and learning how to get along with each other.

She continued with recollections of the awkward days of middle school, learning to gain trust and independence, and finally high school, when everything suddenly changed.

“I think we can all agree that one of our biggest accomplishments was managing and surviving a global pandemic. We lived through one of the most historic events in our century. While the whole world was shut down, we found ways to connect, persevere, and push through.”

Mazinke said, “Transitioning to normal high school after COVID brought us face to face with lots of new opportunities and challenges. Our Grade 9 and 10 years were still affected by the pandemic, but also acted as the first steps into what high school expectations were really like.”

There were first dances, first exams, and of course, their first last day of school. “We learned how to drive, went out on our first dates, and tried not to smirk when we saw that person with that person.”

Because of COVID, Sanders said, they transitioned to high school like no class had done before. “Perseverance, adaptation, and hard work became the key learning tools that we used to navigate this new transition.”

Learning to ask for help, she said, allowed them to grow academically, but also allowed them to form new friendships.

“These are the lessons that we will forever hold with us, wherever our paths may lead us.”

Mazinke said that the biggest lesson they want everyone in the Class of 2024 to learn is to be proud of the person they are, and the person they will grow to become.

“Remember, your success is not defined by the opportunities you are given, but by what you make of them. To find success, you need to seize the day, and dream. Then want your dream so bad that no obstacle could stand in your way.”

She encouraged her fellow graduates to seek out joy. “Have a smile on your face as you conquer every adventure the world has in store for you. Starting at this moment, the world is yours.”