Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. (Translation) Today I will make a statement regarding something that’s really important regarding the graduating of 12 students at the end of this month. There is going to be approximately 32 graduates this year. There are a lot of graduates from other communities, the communities of Gameti, Wekweeti and Behchoko. Once they graduate, a lot of them are carrying on into the colleges and universities, which is very important.

Not only that, but we have Chief Jimmy Bruneau School. Most of all of these teachers have been in these schools for many years, and they should be recognized for the work they have been doing for our school for many years that they committed to our school. So on May 26th, we are going to have a celebration for them. (Translation ends)

…celebrating an historic event. We are proud to announce that this year’s Grade 12 graduating class of Chief Jimmy Bruneau Regional High School in Behchoko is the school’s largest number of graduates ever, for a total of 32 graduates.

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Mr. Speaker, Chief Jimmy Bruneau Regional High School has produced nearly 200 high school graduates since the graduation class in June of 1993. Many of these students are from Wekweeti, Gameti, Whati and Behchoko. Mr. Speaker, we are proud to say the vast majority of Tlicho high school graduates do continue their lifelong journey of learning by moving on to post-secondary education programs at various post-secondary institutions across Canada. Upon completion of their higher education, many of these college and university graduates return to the Tlicho region and hold a variety of positions. These are our future leaders and decision-makers, Mr. Speaker.

The Tlicho Nation will also acknowledge long-term service education staff of the Tlicho Community Services Agency during this Chief Jimmy Bruneau Regional High School graduation ceremony. There will be five long-term dedicated community members that will be recognized for their endless efforts and tremendous contribution to the Tlicho school system. These are the individuals who have, over the last number of years, made a positive difference in the Tlicho region’s education system.

Mr. Speaker, the Chief Jimmy Bruneau Regional High School graduation will take place on Saturday, May 26th, in Edzo. I will certainly be there to speak to the graduating class and share with my constituents the truly memorable and special event. Mahsi.

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