"Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it," (Ferris Bueller).
This slogan has been chosen by the Kamsack Comprehensive Institute’s (KCI) graduating class of 2020. In past years, the graduates had chosen a theme for their “big night,” but this year, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, things will be somewhat different, according to Alexis McGonigal, teacher and graduation leader.
“The virtual grad ceremony scheduled for June 29 is being organized by the teachers to try and celebrate the accomplishments of the 2020 graduates even though we cannot physically be together,” she said. “The thought was to try and ensure that each graduate is acknowledged and to stay in the spirit of celebration that we have in our regular academic ceremony.
“It starts off with sharing a video of well wishes from all the of staff who will be sad to see the graduates go but wish them all the best as they venture off into their future endeavors; whether it be post-secondary education, work, starting a family, or traveling the world. On the date of their original graduation we are going to stream a compilation of speeches and acknowledgement that would be part of an in person graduation celebration with a principal's address, the guest speaker, the valedictorian, and a slide show acknowledging each of the graduates.
“During this time when plans have changed so unexpectedly, we asked the students to adapt and they have done so. At a later date when large group gatherings are allowed an in person celebration of the 2020 graduates can/will be organized so they can have more of a celebration.”
The KCI Facebook page has information about each graduate and their message to fellow grads. Tracy Forsythe, principal, will present the address to the graduates, Tyler Lorenzo will be guest speaker and Shaelyn has been chosen to deliver the valedictorian’s address. Ryan Gareau will read accolades.
“Scholarships will be awarded and posted to the KCI page,” McGonigal said. “Each grad will receive a package with mementos including cap and tassel, cards and their diploma.”
