​On Thursday, May 30, SJASD held its 3rd annual Divisional Graduation Pow Wow celebration at John Taylor Collegiate. Each year, the event is held at a different high school in SJASD to honour the achievements of graduating Indigenous students across the Division. This year a total of 32 students were celebrated at the event, with representation from all five high schools.

Approximately 400 people attended the 2019 Pow Wow as the community gathered inside the gymnasium to enjoy the sounds of drums and traditional song. Dancers and veterans in full regalia filled the space as students were honoured one-by-one. Everyone enjoyed a community feast and a special message was shared in honour of Elder and Veteran Joseph Meconse, who has supported SJASD Pow Wows each year. His daughter, Renata, attended the event this year and walked in his place in the Grand Entry procession. It was an honour to host this event  in our Division again this year and thank you to all who attended. Congratulations to our graduating Indigenous class of 2019, we are proud of your achievements! Lastly, a special thank you to our Indigenous Education team for helping organize and promote this meaningful and impactful community celebration.