Today was Gillian’s graduation from Grade 8, in the fall she will be off to Mt Carmel for high school. It just seemed like yesterday, well maybe not yesterday, but it wasn’t too long ago her and Sarah were waiting for the school bus on their first day of junior kindergarten.

Now here they were getting ready to graduate from Grade 8.

Each of the students made the globe, cap and books that hung on the wall.

Gillian with Vee, another of her good friends since junior kindergarten.

It started with the Graduation Mass, followed by the Ceremony and Awards. Angela was singing in the Graduation Choir and did an excellent job.

Gillian receiving her certificate. I managed to sneak into her photo.

Actually as Chair of the School Council, I had a role in the ceremony, I was handing out a St Richard pin to each student.

Gillian surprised us and herself as she was presented with the French Excellence Award. Since I was on the stage, I wasn’t able to get a picture of Gillian accepting her award. Here she is with Mme Bozzo her french teacher who had presented the award.

Gillian with her plaque. This year they had to replace the big plaques that hang in the school, so her name is the first to go on it, I told her she’ll be on the wall for at least 15 more years.

Of all the awards presented there were only two that came with something extra. She also receive a gift bag with her award. When she got home, she open it to find a nice French-English dictionary. Way to go Gillian!

The librarian put together a slideshow of all the kids, first there was a baby picture and followed by their grad photo. Last year they ran into some technical difficulties, so this year she was a little panicked that it would happen again. It turned just fine and evryone enjoyed the show.

There was a surprise guest speaker at the graduation. About half way through Mayor McCallion came into the church and headed to the front. They paused the ceremony and Hazel addressed the students. As usual she gave a great speech to the students. Every year they invite her, but it isn’t often that she shows up due to her busy schedule. Although the last time was only two years ago. What a treat!

Some of the chaos after the ceremony.

Gillian with her friends.

Gillian with Mrs. Jordan, Mrs. Mountjoy (her grade 8 teachers) and Mr. Carnevale (principal).

The girls with Mrs. Kelly. Each of the girls had her for grade two. She leads the choir as well and all three have been involved with that since grade three.

Here is Gillian with her Grade One teacher Mrs Foster.

We kind of forgot to take family pictures at the church, so we took some when we got back to the house. Gillian with Grandpa and Grandma. Did you notice that Gillian is taller than someone else.

Gillian and her sisters.

Gillian with Susan and I.

We are very proud of everything Gillian 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 Gillian!