By Adam Frisk Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Proud parents, friends, and extended family gathered at Archie Stouffer Elementary School on June 19 to hear the class of ‘26 roar one last time.
The evening was filled with humour, nostalgia, and some words of wisdom as 40 graduates said goodbye to their teachers and prepare for the next step in their young lives.
Kelson Bagshaw took the stage as the Grade 8 valedictorian and delivered a heartfelt send-off to the graduating class.
With a little dose of self-deprecation, Bagshaw joked about his unlikely path to the podium, where he stood in front of a packed gymnasium.
“One year ago, I had no idea what a valedictorian was or how to pronounce it, yet here I am this evening,” the student said. “By looking at my friends here tonight, we’ve definitely increased our aura.”
Looking back on his time at Archie Stouffer, Bagshaw spoke about how the graduating class once walked into the school with “backpacks bigger than we were” and became a tight-knit group of “hardworking, loud, fun, chatty individuals with strong personalities” who were proud to call themselves wildcats.
The young man recounted countless recesses packed with football, four-square, and mini-sticks, as well as memorable field trips to a Toronto Blue Jays game, Medieval Times, and an overnight stay at Camp Muskoka.
Other highlights included the girls’ volleyball team beating the boys twice and a holiday concert mishap.
“We definitely rocked the Christmas concert, or so I’m told, as I don’t remember much as I’m still recovering from the concussion,” Bagshaw joked. “Thanks, friends.”
The valedictorian expressed gratitude toward the teachers who consistently went above and beyond, while admitting, “I’m sure we’ve pushed you to your [limits], or at least I know I have!”
As the grads prepare to transition from wildcats to hawks, Bagshaw left his peers with some advice for high school: sign up for clubs, work hard, and “stay away from the plane!
“Stand your ground and stand up for others,” Bagshaw told his classmates. “These next four years will go fast, so make the best of them.”
Before stepping from the stage, the valedictorian closed the chapter on their elementary school years with a final rally cry.
“So for one last time, wildcats roar!”
