Following our recent assembly, I want to express my gratitude to everyone who shared their concerns and thoughts. Your willingness to speak up and explain your frustrations truly highlights the strength of our community.

Many important issues were raised during the assembly, and it's clear that everyone is on the same page about the upcoming graduation ceremony.

I wanted to bring to your attention to a specific concern that surfaced during our recent assembly, particularly regarding how student voices were represented through student trustees in board meetings. The debate centered around whether these students' thoughts were genuinely considered in the decision-making process. In addition, I had a conversation with a student trustee from another DSBN school who shared their experience during the trustee meeting. They didn't agree with the changes being made and "tried to express that... but they just ignored it." This raises important questions about the inclusivity of the decision-making process and including the voices of those most affected by this change.

In light of this, it becomes even more crucial for us to continue advocating for a direct line of communication with the board. The point of talking to the school board directly was brought up many times, however, it seems that the protocol is to communicate through our principals, and that our emails will simply be forwarded. While it is a step in the right direction, it is not enough. We need to continue to email our principals/school boards to arrange meetings and future assemblies like the one we had today.

However, it's encouraging to know that our message is spreading across schools. The DSBN has taken notice of our petition, but it's crucial to recognize that our work is not done. Our work is done when we have the opportunity to sit down with the board, and bring forth the student's concerns directly. 

Please continue to share the petition and raise awareness about this issue. Your active participation and advocacy are crucial in ensuring that our voices are heard and that positive changes are implemented. Talking to friends, family and school representatives will help spread the word.

Remember, our collective effort is a powerful force, and by standing together we will show the school board there needs to be a change regarding the graduation date.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to making our graduation ceremony a meaningful celebration.