by Garrett Fodor
Essex Public School (EPS) celebrated the hard work, community involvement, and accomplishments of its graduating grade 8 students on the evening of Tuesday, June 25.
Hosted inside the school gymnasium, the ceremony featured the 69 graduating students of the Class of 2019 taught by Mrs. Barry, Mr. Demchuk, and Mr. Paulton.
School Principal Bruno Pallotto said the graduation ceremony provided for an opportunity to celebrate the growth and development of students.
“It was a really great turnout, from friends and family to past teachers. The graduates are great and this event shows it’s a real community school,” Pallotto said. “It’s the elementary school’s celebration. I’m excited for the future of the school and these youths. At EPS, we raise citizens and have students involved in the community.”
The graduating students were awarded their diplomas, along with awards and distinctions if requirements were met. These recognitions showed which students exceeded expectations in the community, their studies, or athletically, or in some cases, all three jurisdictions.
Pallotto added that along with the typical awards, EPS offers two memorial awards: the James Mellow Award and the Gaven’s C.A.R.E Award. These recognitions are given to students who best represent the students after whom they are named. Anna Bougner received the James Mellow Award and Charlie Paquette received the Gaven’s C.A.R.E Award.
The evening gave parents and students an opportunity to look back on the past as they enjoyed seeing pictures taken throughout the school-year and throughout the time the students spent at EPS. It also gave students an opportunity to share their favourite EPS memory with the audience.
The ceremony concluded with valedictorians Seth Ferguson and Priya Chana addressing those in attendance on behalf of their classmates. They shared stories and talked about the impact of being a Phoenix with the support of a community behind them.
Pallotto added he is excited for the future of each of the graduates. On behalf of the entire staff at EPS, he wished them a bright future full of happiness as they pursue their dreams.