A Legacy of Friendship and Faith: St. Michael’s Celebrates Final Graduating Class

This past weekend marked a heartfelt and historic occasion for the community of St. Michael’s School in Bow Island as they celebrated the graduation of their final Grade 12 class. The small but tightly bonded group of five graduates was honoured in a series of special events that reflected the deep connections among students, staff, and families—and the legacy of a school that has served the community for decades.

The official Graduation Ceremony took place on Saturday, June 21 at St. Michael’s School. In attendance were friends, family members, staff, and community dignitaries, including Mayor Gordon Reynolds, Superintendent Chantel Axani, and Principal Kevin Kinahan. Guest speaker Mr. Dave Allen offered reflections, followed by a moving slideshow chronicling the lives and memories of each graduate.

The ceremony’s highlight was the heartfelt Valedictorian Address shared by co-valedictorians Sam Biegel and Dyllan Thurston, who have been best friends since childhood.

“The five of us have been friends since we were little kids,” said Sam. “It’s bittersweet to say goodbye. But it’s a bond we’ll always carry with us.”

“Getting to be co-valedictorian with Sam is really special," added Dyllan. "We’ve done everything together, and I wouldn’t want to be up there with anyone else.”

Following the address, graduates received their certificates and commemorative gifts, presented by Ms. Axani, Mayor Reynolds, and Mr. Kinahan. The ceremony ended in celebratory fashion with the tossing of graduation caps—a symbol of both accomplishment and new beginnings.

That evening, the celebration continued with a Graduation Banquet at Burdett Hall, beginning with dinner, a Grand March, and a dance. The week before, on Sunday, June 15, the class was also honoured during Mass at St. Michael Parish, where Father Wojciech Jarecki offered a blessing in front of their families and parish community.

“Four of the five graduates have been together since kindergarten,” said Principal Kevin Kinahan. “There’s a kind of connection you make spending over half your life together in one place. It’s a really emotional but joyful day—for them, for their families, and for our staff.”

“This graduation is especially meaningful,” added Associate Principal Jill Weatherhead, “because it’s the last one. The students were so committed to finishing together at St. Michael’s, and this weekend, they made that dream a reality.”

Starting in the 2025–2026 school year, St. Michael’s School will transition to a Kindergarten to Grade 9 model, making this year's graduates the final high school class to walk across the stage.

Both Sam and Dyllan are now preparing for post-secondary studies. Sam is heading to the University of Lethbridge to pursue a Bachelor of Science, with hopes of attending the University of Calgary for Veterinary Medicine. Dyllan plans to attend MacEwan University in Edmonton for a Bachelor of Arts, with dreams of becoming an author.

“I’m going to miss everybody,” said Sam. “All the teachers have been so supportive. St. Michael’s is a special place to have grown up in.”

As the school community turns the page, this final group of graduates leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, friendship, and unwavering school spirit.

Congratulations to the St. Michael's School Class of 2025!

*Photos Courtesy Bev Van Es Photography*