Page 43 - 1999

We have just graduated from high school We are now mature adults. Well, most of us.
This recent stage in our life is one that have defined us and set us down a path to destiny. For many of us high school has taught us more than just math equations or about historic events. It has taught us about ourselves -- what we are about, what we want, and what makes us tick. High school has sculpted our future, although many of us have in one way or another, they have set us on a journey down an
exciting road towards our future.
It is an honor for me to represent this class tonight. We have had a lot of fun over the last five or so years, and we each have our own memories that we can think about and laugh at. I will always remember my high school years and cry because high scl10ol is so much easier that university. No, I will always remember my high school years, not only because it was easier than university, but because we had so much fun. We've been through a lot together. Starting as a bunch of confused grade niners, this class has worked its way up to the top, taking its place as leaders of this school. In grade 9, I recall coming to this school and being intimidated by all of the "big kids." I felt confused and out of place, and
couldn't wait to become a senior student. We all survived the initiation and torture of being the youngest in the school, and have become the best class that this school has ever seen. The talent and diversity of our class are phenomenal and when every one's unique talent and identities is placed together, our class takes on its own unique style that can never be duplicated. Now, I can't give this speech without thanking all of the teachers that have helped us through our high school careers. Without good teacher's school would be awful. More people have to realize how important their job is, how well they do it. and how much their time they volunteer
for us. Could you imagine a school without sports teams, bands, clubs, or anything that we took for granted. It can and will happen if the government continues with its changes. We all have our favorite teachers, ones that have inspired us, and that have helped us through rough times. Exceptional teachers make you want to come to school, make you want to learn. and even make you want to show up to class on a Monday after a really rough weekend out. Let's give tltem a huge round of applause. They have done a lot for us.
I also couldn't finish this speech without thanking our parents. High school was a time to learn about ourselves and life, it was about making mistakes and, hopefully, learning from them. When we did mess up our parents were there to help us, and they did help us., eveniftheir idea ofhelp was throwing you in your room for a long time without food and water.
Although a lot of us don't like to admit or accept it , our parents were always trying to do what was best for us. Y AHOO for parents!!!
You've all heard the phrase -- All I ever needed to know in life I learned in kindergarten. "Well, my version is -- All I ever really needed to know in life I learned in high school.
I've learned that friends are one ofthe best commodities anyone can have.
I've learned that getting involved in school activities help a great deal in life. It teaches teamwork, cooperation, and yon can meet lots and lots of girls when you get involved.
I've learned that good judgment. Actually, I didn't learn that last one from high school, but from television.
Most of all, I have learned that CCI is one of the best schools to go to.
This class~ experienced many great things. We had great band trips, awesome history trips to Washington and New York, we had Min-a-kee, we had a Cabaret, an awesome lip sync, tons and tons of GB Championships, we had OFSAA ski champion Tyler Ch.atterson, we had great clubs that set standards for other school everywhere, we had a great Student Conncil, we had Prefects and a Prefect room, we had unsurpassed spirit days, and, finally, we had the best students in the world.
Each and every one of us will someday be able to look back and remember how our time in high school developed our personalities, shaped our futures, and prepared us to deal with life's many obstacles.
For my part I would like to thank my teacher, parents, and, above all, the class of98 for making my last five years great.
We are a lucky class, according to the richest man in the world, Bill Gates. We are entering a new age of information with unbelievable change and opportunities. There are tons ofjobs waiting for us out there and our future looks good. By the way Bill Gates lost $700 million today and I made 5 cents in my bank account.
Through whatever lies ahead on tlris path to our future, we must remember a few things -- work hard, do your best, do what you want, and you will always succeed. But don't ever get into as much trouble as that dirty Bill Clinton. I'd like to wish everyone well in the future.
Again, thank you for allowing me to speak on behalf of our graduating class. And in the words of my Grandfather, HGo on and take care."
Jason Campbdl Vakdidorllln (or Clllss o( '98