Wahsa Distance Education Valedictory Address

Carlena Petawanick - Valedictorian

“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” William Butler Yates
Good afternoon. My name Is Carlena Petawanick and I am from North Caribou Lake.
First of all, I just want to thank you all for attending the graduation ceremony for the class of 2023.
I’d like to start off by thanking the teachers of Wahsa. Although there are many challenges in distance education, you all always took the time to teach me and have patience with me when I faced difficulties. You all are appreciated for the hard work that you do.
Thank you also to my husband for always encouraging me to work hard for my education and my work duties. The times I was so busy, you took on the role of taking care of our children and our home while I was trying to juggle school and work. I couldn’t be more thankful for a husband like you.
I would like to acknowledge my coworker Chantal Chikane, for taking the time tutor me, although we had busy lives at home and at work you took the time to help me throughout the school year and almost everyday you pushed me to work hard and would tell me not to quit. You are someone I look up to!
Finally, to my fellow graduates, be proud of what you have accomplished because only you know what it took to get here. Aside from the daily challenges that you encountered and your duties at home or at work, and if you had a family to take care at the same time, you persevered, and I’m here to say you have succeeded. So, as you continue to higher education, I want to remind you that It is never too late to keep learning more, no matter how old you are, there is no limit to education! I encourage you to study hard and chase the dream you are after, whatever it may be. Never forget to take care of yourself and your mental health in the process. Remember the choices you make are for you and yours, be positive and do your best to achieve greater than your yesterday self.
In closing, I would like to congratulate class of 2023. I wish you all the best in your future endeavours.
Thank you