With the end of the school year it is time to say goodbye to a few faces as they take new paths next year.
The Grade 6 class will be off to the high school and two beloved staff members at Ratushniak Elementary School in Maidstone have reached retirement.
Mr. Rod Kalmakoff, the principal, was supposed to finish a year ago but due to unforeseen circumstances decided to stay on for one more year. He said his goodbyes at an assembly on the last day of school Wednesday.
Staff and students also said goodbye and thank you to Mr. David Best, Edmonton Eskimo fan and dedicated teacher.
Kalmakoff spoke about the stress of meetings and times he didn't want to go to school.
"And then I'd remember the students, you're the reason I'm going to miss my job so much," he said.
He told those gathered they always brightened his day and thanked them.
Kalmakoff also addressed the Grade 6 class.
"My wish for you is that you live your lives in such a way that you will reflect credit upon yourselves, your parents, your teachers and your community. Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your school, your community and world better than you first found it."
Honour rolls were read and three special awards were presented.
The interhouse award was presented to the Pythons. The Allen Craig Social Studies award was presented to Brooke Cox. She received a plaque and a book about Canada for her dedication to Grade 6 Social Studies and achieving an average of 95 per cent.
The RCMP award is presented to a Grade 6 student for all around achievement. This year it was presented to two respectful, academically high achieving and involved students, Ashley McFadyen and Kristin Baldwin.
The end of the school year marked a time to celebrate and a time to look forward to the future.
