The community of Naujaat came together to see Tuugaalik High School celebrate its largest graduating class in history on Aug. 24.
The Class of 2018 had 20 students hear their names called to come forward and receive their Grade 12 diplomas. It is the largest graduation class that Naujaat has ever seen, said vice-principal Julia MacPherson.
The event was made even more special when the school was able to hire a professional decorator to come up to Naujaat, and plan for and execute the decorating and details of the graduation, she said.
“Her name is Shelley Hodge of Labrador City, Nfld., and she was accompanied by her husband, Brad Dillon, who is a photographer and took all the graduation pictures,” said MacPherson.
“Her company is called Inspired Events and they did a wonderful job.”
MacPherson said the school staff members hosted a special grad dinner for all the graduates on Thursday, Aug. 23.
She said the dinner was impressive, with staff members serving steak, lasagna, garlic mashed potatoes, macaroni salad and homemade cheesecake for dessert.
“It was a great turnout and a new tradition. The students were very grateful and enjoyed their meal.”
MacPherson said Tuugaalik held its Class of 2018 graduation ceremony and prom the following day, Friday, Aug. 24.
The professional decorator had the school’s gymnasium beautifully decorated and the community was awestruck by how wonderful it looked, she said.
“There was a huge crowd. In fact, it was one of the largest crowds we’ve ever had,” said MacPherson
“Another highlight from the ceremony was the fact we added another new tradition to the proceedings.
“We gave every graduate two bouquets of artificial flowers (made by the decorator) that they gave out to loved ones, family, teachers, or friends who have helped them on their education journey.
“The addition produced very emotional and lovely presentations.”