Good everyone. First of all, I would like to thank my fellow students for giving me the honour of addressing everyone in this room as a valedictorian. It was a great honour just being nominated along with all the deserving students; Raj, Farah, Denise Marler, Katie, Janet, Anna, and Deniz Ergun. I stand here tall and proud delivering this farewell speech. I cannot express the happiness, the exhilaration, and the excitement that I am enjoying standing in front of you.

Our graduation tonight brings closure to one of the most important chapters of our lives. Tonight, also, takes us to the beginning of a new phase. All of us are looking forward to facing the challenges of high school. But tonight, is the night for celebrating our time in River Oaks Public School. The strength of a building or any standing structure,, solely depends on its foundation. Likewise, the education we have received in our school has laid a solid foundation for our future. All that is left for us to do is build on this foundation. As it is very well said “Education is a companion which no misfortune can depress, no crime can destroy, and no enemy can alienate.

A few years from now, we all will be heading in different directions, living in different places in the world, and pursuing different dreams, however, we all will have one thing in common, the foundation of careers that was built right here in River Oaks.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and everyone who have helped to build this foundation. Starting from out parents who have tirelessly dedicated their time, effort, and energy to make sure that we all achieve our goals. Secondly, the volunteers who have devoted time from their busy schedules to provide a safe environment in our school. Thirdly, the office staff for keeping everything well organized AND the care-takers for providing us with a safe and healthy environment.

 

 

We cannot thank enough Mr. Conlin, Miss Murdoch, and the outstanding teachers at our school for the great job they have done day in and day out. On numerous occasions, many of our teachers have gone beyond the call of duty to help us get our education in a safe and healthy environment. Whether it was our participation in a school project, or a trip outside of school premesis, the dedication, and professionalism displayed by the teaching staff is true reflection of their character. For what they have to put up with, especially from our grade 8 students, there are no words to thank this group of committed people One of the ways we can pay them back, **in fact, the ONLY way that we can pay them back**  is by making them proud of our achievements. It is very well said “"Teachers open the door, but you must enter by yourself."

 

Once, my grandmother told me that each one of us are in debt to the  following people

 

1)      God- who created this universe

2)     Our parents- who  brought us to this Earth

3)     The society which provides an environment for us to learn and live

4)     AND, to our teachers who help us lay a foundation for our careers.

 

 

I know that wherever I will be in my life the memories of River Oaks have become an integral part of my life, and I am sure you all feel the same.

 

I want you all to go away with one thought

 

That the teachers have done their part of laying the foundation, now its all up to us to build on that foundation.

 

God bless and thank you.