Niverville grads celebrate 13 years of hard work

The class of 2024 threw their caps to celebrate graduating from Niverville High School on Wednesday.

The 17 and 18-year-olds started kindergarten back in 2011 and started high school at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, they’re heading into the workforce and getting full-time jobs.

“Each of you has the power to make a positive impact on the world. You do not need to be a superhero or a world leader to make a difference,” said Principal Kimberley Funk. “Your generation is uniquely positioned to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time, whether it’s advocating for social justice, protecting the environment, or contributing to your community, you have the potential to be a source for good.

This is Funk’s last graduation with NHS, as she is moving over to SRSS next school year to become vice-principal.

“Today we stand at the finish line of one race, and the starting line of another,” said HSD representative Jeff Friesen. “Remember, it’s not about just crossing the finish line, but the growth and learning along the way,”

Valedictorian Jack Grantham gave his speech inside the packed NHS gymnasium, where family, friends and fellow grads watched on. He also joined in the live jazz performance, wearing a cap and gown while playing his trombone.

“I want you to soak in every minute of this, remember the faces of the people you’re sitting next to,” said Grantham. “And as we leave this place one last time, I want you to remember all the good times we’ve had together and to go forth with those memories into the world.”

“Find your happiness, be kind, be brave, and when times get tough remember how strong you are and how much the people in the room care about you, I have faith in all of you.”

“It’s the end of one chapter and the start of another,” said Grantham. “I feel like I’m on top of the world right now.”

Grantham is going to business school at the University of Manitoba to take business next year.

Other graduates were also excited to take their next step in life.

“I’m very excited, glad to be done school, it’s a big accomplishment, made it through the whole 13 years of school, very happy that I passed,” said Harley Martin, who’s taking a gap year to figure out what’s in store for his post-graduation life.

Kalie-Lynne Kyle was also excited to finish high school, she’s now ready for Computer Science with a quick university one stop at the University of Manitoba.

“It feels great, it’s nice to start a new chapter in life,” she said.

The 72 grads will all lead different lives, but having kickstarted them all at NHS.