John Barlow, addresses recent graduates.

There was a record amount of graduates this year from the Academy of Learning College in High River.

The Highwood Golf and Country club hosted the graduation ceremony for the local college on Saturday June 23, 2018.

Owner and director of the school, Jennifer Avery says: "Our attendance this year was higher than any year in the past, and we have the most graduates walking the stage this year as well."

The college offers various courses for both recent High School graduates, and older students who may have been out of school for awhile. Avery says parents make up a number of the particpants in the program: "Some of them may have not graduated before, so for them it's important to invite the entire family over to celebrate. It's much different than from a High School graduation where you just invite your parents and grandparents, whereas here students may have their own kids, so it's still important to celebrate your work throughout the year."

Foothills MP John Barlow, also attended the event and delivered a speech to the graduates, urging them to "take risks and chances", recalling his own experience leaving Saskatchewan behind, for a new career opportunity.

 

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