By: Jessica Farquarson
With schools facing restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they had to find alternative ways to honour their graduates and celebrate their achievements. Saltcoats School decided that the best way to celebrate, under the circumstances, would be to have a virtual grade 7 and 8 awards night and grade 8 farewell using Zoom as the platform.
The program was a success and, while the graduates lost out on the opportunity to have a conventional farewell, they were able to get some sense of closure for a school year that ended abruptly.
The Mayors of Saltcoats and Bredenbury, Grant McCallum and Russell Slowski respectively, delivered their congratulations and well-wishes to the graduating class. Also making an appearance to speak to the class were Marilyn Herron (School Community Council), Lois Smandych (GSSD School Board Member), and Alisa Leidl (Superintendent of Schools for GSSD). Each grade 8 student also participated with their own individual speaking parts.
On top of the uncertain future due to COVID-19, Saltcoats School is also experiencing significant changes to the staff. Long time staff member Dale Sidoryk is not returning in the fall as he has decided to retire. Principal of three years, Noel Budz, will also be leaving as he will be taking up a new post at Dr. Brass. In his farewell speech, Mr. Budz left the students with a positive message, encouraging them to take the uncertainty of this time as an opportunity to impact the world, telling them to “be better, be great and make a difference”. He ended his message with a phrase he often said to the kids, “You got this.”
Many students were awarded with academic awards, athletic awards, as well as Mustang Awards for positive school citizenship.
The Most Improved Student Award is given to the student who displays the greatest overall improvement in work habits, work ethic, academic average, social maturity, and attitude. This year’s recipient was Ava Temple.
The Mustang Resiliency Award was established for a Grade 8 Student who has shown resilience, determination and growth through his/her educational journey at Saltcoats School. This student has faced daily challenges and shown perseverance in achieving personal and academic outcomes despite experiencing trials and setbacks. This year’s recipient was Kurt Lubarvio.
The Artisan of the Year is awarded to a Grade 7 or 8 student who shows dedication towards art throughout the year, shows a positive attitude and work ethic in art classes throughout the year, has completed all art assignments throughout the year and has shown an interest in art as a hobby or career. This year’s recipient was Shaunté Shannacappo.
The Ryan Neal Memorial Leadership Award is awarded to two students who demonstrate leadership qualities. These students participate in school activities, encourage others to do their best, are respectful, show commitment and do their best in all activities (academic, athletic, and social). This year’s recipients were Liam Baron and Emma Kitzul.
This year’s Grade 8 class includes: Liam Baron, Wyatt Bergen, Joselynn Beynon, Elexa Daigneault, Taylor Datema, Brayden Jerome-Ward, Emma Kitzul, Tristan Kostelnyk, Kurt Lubarvio, Jace McCallum, Curtis Neufeld, Mika Sorono, Mathew Srochenski, Justus Sully, Ava Temple, and Timothy Wild.
Congratulations to all graduates and award recipients! Best of luck in high school!