By Dean Midyette
Pioneer Publisher
This coming week we join the families of our David Thompson Secondary School graduates in celebrating their achievement. It is a momentous time for the Class of 2015, and while families and siblings beam proudly as students cross the stage to receive their diplomas and effectively pass into adulthood, there are many community members outside the family that have shared and shaped our childrens journey.
Consider the coaches and other volunteers who have generously donated their time to ensure that our children could grow through sports such as hockey, gymnastics, alpine and Nordic skiing to name but a few. As parents, we can attest to the growth our children have experienced under the tutelage of our sports mentors.
Consider the music, dance and art teachers who have fostered creativity within our sons and daughters, encouraging them to find their own unique voice and to confidently express it.
Consider those who volunteer in service to our community, raising funds that support local initiatives that have benefitted our children.
We must also include the friends and neighbours whom parents have relied upon in times of emergency, needed respite and, of course, for sleepovers.
Finally there are our teachers, entrusted with educating our children about how the world works and inspiring a love of lifelong learning. Last year, the Conference Board of Canada released a report that noted that Canadas strength is in delivering high-quality education with comparatively modest spending. The public education system in British Columbia was ranked as the best in Canada and third best in the world. Simply put, those who will be donning their caps and gowns have received a world-class education from world-class teachers.
It is said that it takes a village to raise a child, and while everyone at the graduation ceremonies will be celebrating the conclusion of a thirteen-year journey, I encourage our graduates to reflect on those who shared the road with them, if only for a few steps.
When you happen to meet one, Im sure a simple thank you will suffice.
