SelfDesign salutes the more than 100 learners who completed their journeys with SelfDesign Learning Community this learning year.
More than one-third of those learners gathered with their families, friends, and other members of our community in person in the Lower Mainland on May 27, and more gathered online on June 10 to mark the occasion. Some joined from communities across British Columbia, some from other provinces, and some from overseas.
Our personalized learning program provides learners with the same credentials that all B.C. schools offer. We support learners in achieving their goal of completion in the way that best suits them, whether it’s their B.C. Certificate of Graduation (Dogwood Diploma), Adult Graduation Diploma or School Completion (Evergreen) Certificate.
No matter the path to completion they chose, all were welcome at the ceremonies, where we celebrated their achievements and growth.
“This group of commencing learners started their high school years in the midst of a pandemic, and as a cohort, they faced challenges none of us could have foreseen throughout their grade 10–12 years,” says SelfDesign Learning Community Principal Catherine Dinim. “They also had to adjust in their last year at SelfDesign to using a brand-new learning platform. That was a monumental change to make for their last year, requiring quick learning, flexibility and persistence.”
And through it all, “learners in this commencing class demonstrated maturity and leadership, collaboration and communication with one another as they pitched their own ideas and raised the voices and suggestions of others,” she says. “These competencies will serve them well in whatever challenges they face in the future.”
At the ceremonies, amid the good wishes and commendations, some of the commencing learners addressed their peers. Others presented recordings of their dance routines, musical performances, artwork, and animations.
“We’ve made it…. We’ve made it here today,” one learner said. “This is our day to graduate, or, as they say, commence. We’re at the end of one act and at the beginning of another one.”
“For as long as I can remember I just wanted to press a button and be done with school, but now I wish there was a rewind button,” another learner said. “I can’t believe my high school journey has come to an end.”
“There was such a beautiful quality of respect, mutual support and excitement, especially being demonstrated by learners towards each other,” says SelfDesign Vice Principal Clarissa Tufts. “It was such an affirming experience that SelfDesign learners are amazing ambassadors of the SelfDesign values. The Principal team couldn’t be more impressed and proud!”
To SelfDesign’s Class of 2023, everyone here at SelfDesign® Learning Foundation salutes you and wishes you many joyous adventures as your learning journeys continue!
