The 2017 TR Leger Adult Education Graduation

Students, parents and grandparents who decided to return to school for their High School credentials were rewarded last week at General Vanier Secondary School.

The TR Leger School held their annual graduation ceremonies and 15 local students received their honors.

Among them was Stephanie Oakes – who was selected as Valedictorian. She gave the keynote speech and told of how intimidated she was to return to the classroom. But once she settled back into the school environment it got better.

"I know it can be hard to go back to school as an adult, I was terrified of the fact that I had to do schoolwork again. I questioned whether I could do it. Thankfully I gained strength from what was inside those doors. My classroom was a comfortable supportive environment, I had wonderful classmates," she said.

It was the support of those classmates that made her stick it out when she wanted to give up.

"When I walked through those doors I wanted to turn around and walk out, but I told myself you can do it, you can graduate, and here I am valedictorian of the class. It's a great honor and a great privilege to be valedictorian," said Oakes.

She also talked about how important a high school diploma is in this world, and receiving it was special and she was very grateful to have been given that chance.

Upper Canada District School Board Member Peter Garrow said despite the brand new diploma the students received their learning experience is not finished.

"You are the graduates, you are an example of lifelong learning, you are on the journey right now, you took that important step, don't stop," Garrow told the graduates.

He added that Akwesasne's commitment to learning is being recognized among the province and that reputation is growing.

The evening concluded with the presentation of diplomas and well wishes from friends and family.

Io Ha Hi:io Adult Education Graduates

Margaret Chaussi

Devon Oakes

Lorraine Oakes

Stephanie Marie Oakes

Santana Tarbell

Akwesasne Mohawk Board of Education Foundations

Autumn Beaubien

Michael Robert-Cook

Nikki Cook

Chandler Gray

Nash Oakes

Shea Skidders-MacLeod

Kawisanoron Thompson-Lane

Keisha Marie Whitecrow

Cornwall

Stevie Bush

Chaney Lauzon