The next chapter is just around the corner for graduating students at Edward Milne Community School.
This year’s valedictorian, Andrew Rodd, reflected on his time at the school and said many memories of spending time with friends came to mind.
“EMCS is such a great school. The teachers care about you, and you could walk in to any room and make a friend, everyone is really nice,” said Rodd. “The people, students and teachers, and the sense of community is what I’ll miss the most about EMCS.”
He added some of his favourite memories revolve around hanging out in Mr. Baldwin’s room chatting with other friends and students between classes.
Rodd was selected for valedictorian around two weeks ago, and already has most of his speech written.
“It’s such an honour,” said Rodd. “I’m a little nervous to do the speech, but I am also really excited.”
The role of valedictorian is generally given to a student with the highest grade point average.
Rodd is keeping his speech top secret until the night of graduation, but wants to tell his classmates that they are capable of doing anything they set their mind to.
“Everyone in my class has the ability to do successful things in their life. We are all like a big family,” he said.
After graduation, Rodd plans to study biochemistry at the University of Victoria.
“Biology is my favourite subject. I don’t know exactly where I’ll go with my program but I could see myself specializing in genetics,” said Rodd. “Genetics interest me so much because they are the code of human life.”
EMCS principal Laura Fulton said she’s sad to see the Grade 12’s go already, because she was just starting to get to know them.
“I am continually impressed by their diversity in skill, talent, creativity, ambitions and also their thoughtfulness,” said Fulton. “I have no doubt that the class of 2018 will make Sooke and Port Renfrew proud with their future accomplishments.”
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Fulton replaced Pat Swinburnson in December, and said she had a successful semester at EMCS, adding that all of the graduates will be incredible citizens and each will positively contribute to the world around them.
She is looking forward to the community coming together to celebrate the graduates as they move towards their lives as adults.
”Graduation is such a special day,” said Fulton. “I wish every success for each and every EMCS graduate. I hope that they continue to support one another through challenging times and also are there for each other to celebrate life’s successes. I hope that they continue to reflect on their EMCS family and continue to take pride in their school as alumni.”
The graduation ceremony takes place at UVic this Saturday (June 2) starting at 1 p.m. Doors open at 12:30.