Rocky View Schools (RVS) is pleased to celebrate the Indigenous students graduating from high schools across the division during the inaugural Indigenous Graduation Ceremony on June 25 at W.H. Croxford High School in Airdrie. This cultural event will honour and recognize the achievements of First Nations, Métis and Inuit graduates across RVS. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. and the ceremony will begin at 5:00 p.m.

“Indigenous students are an important part of our school communities,” said Superintendent of Schools, Greg Luterbach. “We are proud to recognize this milestone in their education as they graduate from high school this year. RVS’ inaugural Indigenous Graduation Ceremony will be a celebration of the hard work and efforts of not only these students, but also their families and communities. We are excited to celebrate with them and honour this accomplishment.”

This year, 103 students who self-identify as First Nations, Métis and Inuit with distinct cultures and communities are graduating from RVS high schools.

The ceremony will be emceed by a Blackfoot guest speaker and will feature remarks by RVS board members and divisional staff. During the ceremony, cultural protocols such as smudge, round dance and giveaway will be observed. Chiniki Lake Drummers will provide drumming and an honour song for the graduates and Métis dancers Violet’s Michif Dancers will perform.

In the tradition of generosity, each graduate in attendance will receive a blanket or sash. Indigenous families and communities thrive on friendship and reciprocity, and the giveaway is a tradition that uses gifts to show gratitude and mark important events. First Nations students will receive a blanket, which in many Indigenous cultures is a heartfelt gesture that offers care, protection and belonging. At graduations, blankets honour a student’s journey, connect them to their ancestors and celebrate their future. The blanket is meant to serve as a reminder that personal achievements are rooted in the strength of family, community and culture. Students who identify as Métis will be presented with a sash, which is a symbol of Métis culture and heritage, resilience and identity.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, congratulations to the First Nations, Métis and Inuit students in RVS’ Class of 2025,” said Board Chair, Fiona Gilbert. “We are proud to share in the celebration of your achievement through this special ceremony and wish you all the best on the next part of your journey.”

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