Today we were honoured to virtually participate in the Traditional Celebration of Achievement.
The Traditional Celebration of Achievement (TCOA) recognizes and honours First Nations, Metis, and Inuit (FNMI) graduates of the Wood Buffalo region. Students from Fort McMurray, Fort Chipewyan, Fort McKay, Anzac, Janvier, and Conklin were all recognized.
The inaugural TCOA was held in 1998 when 33 graduates from the Fort McMurray area crossed the stage.
Fort McMurray Catholic Schools is proud to have an over 88% graduation rate for Indigenous students- 33% above the provincial average.
Thank you to all of the organizers on the TCOA committee. It is inspiring to see these students cross the stage each year, even virtually, and know the opportunities available to them. We at Fort McMurray Catholic Schools are pleased to be a part of their success.
“Congratulations to the graduating class of 2021. Your hard work and dedication over the past 13 years has finally paid off. While not the high school experience you had hoped for, your successes and accomplishments are equally important and deserving of recognition and celebration. You have all made us proud in your own unique way and we are blessed to have been a part of your educational journey. On behalf of the staff at Holy Trinity CHS, we wish you all the best in the new and exciting adventures that lay ahead. God Bless and best of luck.” – Lisa Hilsenteger, Holy Trinity Catholic High School Principal
“It is with a tremendous amount of pride and pleasure that I wish each of our students a heartfelt congratulations. Revel in this moment and take the time to rejoice. Please also remember that now is your time and your chance to change the world for the better. You have that ability deep in your hearts. While we will miss seeing you in our hallways and classrooms, please be assured in the knowledge that we are tremendously proud to see you move forward. God Bless you and stay safe.” – Lisa Miller, Father Mercredi High School Principal
“Today we honor each of you. You are an inspiration to all of us and to your friends, family, communities, nations and future generations. There is much to look forward to as you take the next step in your journey. God Bless.” – Deborah Kitching, FMCSD Outreach Principal
“Congratulations Graduates of 2021! The Traditional Celebration of Achievement is always an exciting event, as we celebrate our First Nations, Métis and Inuit graduating students. Your dedication and commitment to complete high school, especially in a year of stops and starts, quarantines and isolations, is an inspiration to all of us at Fort McMurray Catholic Schools. As we continue to work towards reconciliation, we thank you and your families for entrusting our Division with walking alongside you as you reach for your goals.” – Cathie Langmead, Fort McMurray Catholic Board of Education Chair
“Congratulations to all the Indigenous students of our Region. The Creator has a plan for you. Hear the voice and follow it. Find your passion. On behalf of the Fort McMurray Catholic Schools family, we are very proud of you. God bless” – George McGuigan, Fort McMurray Catholic Schools Superintendent