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Vol. 19, No. 29, Wednesday, June 12, 2024 www.LamontLeader.com
LAMONT HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATING CLASS OF 2024 “Like stars across the sky, we were born to shine”
Dignitaries congratulate Lamont High School grads of 2024 BY JOHN MATHER It was chilly, and wet outside but inside Lamont High School June 8, it was nothing but warmth and love; and the graduating class of 2024 was honoured before dignitaries, family and friends. In total, 42 students received their diplomas during the event. Elk Island Schools trustee Colleen Holowaychuk was the first to address the graduates. “Today celebrates not only the completion of your K to 12 journey, but the beginning of new adventures and opportunities.” The graduate’s theme was “Like the stars across the sky, we were born to shine,” by the Italian tenor great Andrea Bocelli, written by him, David Foster and Foster’s daughter Amy Foster for the closing ceremonies of the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin. Holowaychuk referenced the stars by stating when they started their journeys they began by gathering light and were filled with curiosity. She said their educational journey had begun with curiosity and the young students were filled with potential. “With your hard work and the help of your teachers you are now shining brightly.” “Like stars in the sky, you contribute with your brightness in your community, and the community that ultimately you will all be a part of.” Continued on Page 2
Lamont valedictorian salutes peers in speech
Ethan Svitich delivers his Valedictorian Speech to his fellow classmates during the Graduation ceremonies at Lamont High School on June 8.
BY JOHN MATHER Ethan Svitich began his valedictorian speech by admitting he was surprised by the honour. “It is certainly an esteemed honour but there was one problem,” he said. “I had no idea what a valedictorian was.” He said after some research with help from Google, he had learned what a good valedictorian was. “I must be a good representative of the class and uphold academic excellence.” He thanked his fellow students for their support over the years working with their peers, giving back to their classmates, and striving towards excellence. “You have reached a pivotal point in your lives,” he said. “It may not seem important now but some day I hope you can look back to this moment and be proud of yourselves.” He said one of the important lessons he had learned over the years was “you may strive for perfection but you will never reach it.” He quoted from several of his assignments over the years which he said, upon reflection, offered incorrect conclusions. “Sometime,” he stated. “Imperfection is the key to success.” He then said farewell to his class mates. Continued on Page 2