The 2019 graduating class of Senator Myles Venne School. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

Milestone

‘A great gift’: SMVS celebrates 2019 graduation

Jun 21, 2019 | 4:41 PM

Twenty-five graduates from Senator Myles Venne School (SMVS) took the next step in their lives after receiving their diplomas Friday.

The ceremony began with an opening prayer by Elder John Halkett, which was followed by the presentation of graduates and an honour song. Many dignitaries were there provide congratulatory messages including Principal Robert Whiteman, Lac La Ronge Indian Band Chief Tammy Cook-Searson, Director of Education Simon Bird and Cumberland NDP MLA Doyle Vermette. In his speech to the graduates, Whiteman stated the reality is life will only become harder after high school, adding there will be successes and failures but the most important part is to never give up.

“We hope you keep in touch for many years to come,” he said. “I also want you to know we appreciate all you have done at SMVS over the years and the contributions you made to make our school a better place to be, and a better place to work.”

A number of speeches were also made by the graduates including Haley Ross who provided the tribute to staff, Alicia Sanderson made the tribute to family and Cyrena Ratt was chosen at the 2019 valedictorian. Ratt told the audience members of the graduating class made many memories over the years and said she will remember the field trips they took together. She mentioned together they have grown into independent young adults, who pushed themselves to attend class, complete homework and ultimately graduate.

During her time at SMVS, Ratt stated she didn’t have to look far for inspiration and asked her fellow graduates to follow that example. She told them to remain true to their values and commit themselves to goals.

Made in Saskatchewan

Find My Plus One: The Canadian App for Getting Out and Living Your Best Life

Mar 09, 2026

Riderville

Ask Not for Whom the Ed Hervey Tampering Window Opens!

Feb 02, 2026

Seniors Scene

New Year - New Habits

Feb 02, 2026

Cyrena Ratt delivered the valedictorian’s address. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

Graduates sat on stage during the ceremony. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

“I want you to know what a great gift it is to be as prepared as we are because not all schools offer such an advantage,” Ratt said. “Here we have had a high degree of academic excellence and, whether you intend to continue your education or not, you will benefit from what you learned here.”

The 2019 SMVS graduating class includes Beverly Ballantyne, Nigel Bear, Shareef Bear, Darryl Bird, Dean Bird, Selina Bradfield, Alyssa Charles, Christina Charles, Lisa Charles, Paul Charles, Brittany Halkett, Roger Howe, Julius Isbister, Leonard Isbister, Shelby LaVallee, Jack McKenzie, Joey McKenzie, Skylar McKenzie, Raven McLeod, Kirstin Nelson, Cyrena Ratt, Haley Ross, Alicia Sanderson Jayce Smith and Lalita Venne.

–

derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno