View From the Legislature

As the 2018 school year draws to a close, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all of this year’s graduates. Whether you are graduating from High School, from a post-secondary program or from another education milestone, you should be proud of this accomplishment.

Graduation is a special family time. While the attention is properly focused on the graduate, those that have supported the years of learning are critically important, whether that be a parent, sibling, spouse or for some mature learners, even a child. For parents, this time can often be filled with memories as, if you are like my wife and I, you vividly remember the day you first brought your child to school. Your support has set the foundation for your child’s future success and I encourage you to celebrate this occasion

For graduates, this is a very significant achievement in your life and one that will open many doors of opportunity for you, whether it is in post-secondary education, trade schools, or in the workplace if you choose. Please know that your family, friends, teachers and community are very proud of you. For those who have graduated post-secondary education, from a University or a College, your degree or diploma recognizes the additional skills that you have obtained. I hope that you are able to apply those skills in a way that brings you satisfaction.

Your graduation is a ceremony that gives you the opportunity to stop and celebrate the culmination of all of your efforts and to truly absorb the start of a new chapter in your life. It is a rite of passage and an opportunity to acknowledge those people who have helped and supported you along the way.

And of course not to be overlooked are the education professionals who have helped graduates reach this important time in their lives. Teachers are often more than simply educators throughout the school years. They also offer support and encouragement for our students as they progress throughout the education system. Their work is made possible as well by the support staff and assistants who also add to the positive learning environment in our schools. Thank you to all of our education professionals and support staff for your work and we wish you a safe and enjoyable summer.

Congratulations again to the Class of 2018 on this important accomplishment. We wish all graduates well in your future endeavors, whether they be in the world of work, furthering your education or family life. It is my hope that you will continue to build on the foundation that you have successfully established in your years of education.

We wish you best wishes for a rewarding future.