École Évangéline graduates encouraged to make their mark on the world

Rikki Delaney, front left, Bryanna Sharkey, Britney Arsenault, Stephanie Arsenault, Olivia Arsenault. Back, from left: Samuel Bouchard, Charles Gallant, Katelyn Milligan, Christian Gallant, Miguel Arsenault, and Cameron Gallant. - Desiree Anstey

WELLINGTON, P.E.I. — There were jokes, laughter and nervous anticipation for the 11 graduates at École Évangéline Sunday evening.

Valedictorian and Grade 12 president Britney Arsenault encouraged the younger students to make the most of their time.

“Spending time with friends and getting to know each other year after year is what I’m going to miss most. We (the graduates) are not going to see each other often, like we did while at school, but the memories we made along the way is something I will always hold onto," said Britney, who decided her next step is to take a year off.

“If I could give any advice to the younger students it’s this: enjoy every moment of your school days because you are not going to live it again. Put yourself into everything, keep busy, and make memories because those years go by fast.”

Lt.-Gov. Antoinette Perry and Evangeline-Miscouche MLA Sonny Gallant were among the special guests at the 58th edition of the École Évangéline graduation ceremony.

Olivia Arsenault received the Governor General’s Award, given to the graduate with the highest academic standing.

“I joined this school in Grade 10, after leaving École-sur-Mer in Summerside, and it’s been a great experience. What I will miss most are both the teachers and friends because I’m planning to move away, probably to Moncton for a year off,” said Olivia, while admitting it was “anxiety-inducing” being on stage in front of the large – but supportive – audience.

Principal Paulette LeBlanc encouraged the students to make their mark on the world.

“In a small community it’s hard to continue speaking French because we are a minority on the Island, so for them to graduate from the very first French school on P.E.I. is very remarkable. We can proudly say, there have been 58 years of graduates that can go out into this world and make their mark.”

LeBlanc concluded with some words of advice for all the graduates.

“Success likes effort and that’s what I feel you need to hear. When you work hard then you can achieve whatever you want. Even if there are challenges along the way, don’t ever give up," said LeBlanc. "Keep trying and something will come up,”