Today was Angela’s grade 8 graduation. Fortunately there were some delays with the planned renovations/construction at the Church, so they were able to move the graduation back to the Church from the school gym. The title of this post comes from Ellen Degeneres 2009 commencement speech at Tulane University, it’s a funny speech.

Claudia, Angela, and Gillian. Claudia was singing in the Grad Mass choir, she did an excellent job.

A nice family photo (Grandma Swan was behind the camera).

She almost looks taller than Susan.

Ready for a busy evening ahead. There was a Graduation Mass presided over by Father Abraham, followed by the ceremony.

Waiting for things to get started.

Mrs Foster was the MC for the graduation ceremony.

The school principal, Mr. Araman.

This guy needs to get a camera, I didn’t get a picture of the other guy taking pictures with his iPad.

Angela going up for her diploma.

Receiving her Honours medal.

Angela and Mr Araman.

Angela was the recipient of the St Richard Student of the Year Graduate award.

Here she is with Mr Araman and her Grade 8 teachers, Mrs Jordan and Mrs Lang.

Angela was also chosen to give the Valedictorian Speech for her class.

Here is Angela’s speech. Thanks to Gillian for holding the camera for the entire speech.

Gillian with her Student of the Year award.

Angela with Mrs Jordan, her Grade 8 teacher.

Angela with Mrs Mountjoy, her Junior Kindergarten teacher, as well as her Grade 7 teacher.

Angela with Mrs Foster, her Grade 6 teacher. Mrs Foster is Claudia’s teacher this year and she taught Gillian Grade One.

Angela with Mrs Lang and Madame Ditaranto.

Mrs Kelly and Angela. Angela had Mrs Kelly for Grade two, she retired a couple of years ago, but she still volunteers at the school, she played the piano for the choir at the Mass.

Angela with Mrs Falotico, the school secretary. Angela was an office helper this year.

Angela with her peanut/nut free cake from the Sweetness Bakery in Dundas. Thanks Grandma!

Congratulations Angela! A job well done! We are very proud of everything Angela accomplished this year and for the past 10 years at St. Richard. She has worked hard and has turned into a fine young lady. Thank you Angela!

Angela’s poem

Graduation is here, 
There is nothing to fear
It is not the end
But new beginnings are near

We remember the new
We remember the old
We remember the people who taught us to be bold

Do not cry
For your dreams will fly
And I don’t want you to say good-bye

Close to your heart
Memories will stay
And starting today 

We will collect new gems
And meet new friends

But never forget
Our elementary years
Because graduation
Is finally here