John Paul II Collegiate graduates celebrate by throwing their caps into the air. (Austin Mattes/battlefordsNOW)
Class of 2025 Graduation

John Paul II graduates reflect and celebrate high school journey

Jun 27, 2025 | 2:14 PM

A wave of emotions filled the gymnasium of John Paul II Collegiate on Thursday as 98 graduates crossed the stage to mark the end of their high school journey. The Class of 2025 was celebrated not only for their academic accomplishments but also for their wide-ranging involvement and impact on the school community.

More than $45,000 in bursaries were awarded through 102 individual awards, recognizing the achievements and dedication of the graduating class.

Paige Michaud (left) and Rory Combres (right) had the honour of introducing the graduates. (Austin Mattes/battlefordsNOW)
Students receiving their diplomas. (Austin Mattes/battlefordsNOW)

Principal Bruce Yockey expressed his pride in the students for their contributions and involvement in the school.

“Their commitment to the JP II school community, whether it’s academics, athletics, the arts, music, they did a lot of volunteer hours. The Crusade Against Cancer Campaign this year raised $20,000 for the BUH Foundation, so just a really well-rounded group here. We are very proud,” said Yockey.

Justine Gabriel Panti smiles as he waits for his name to be called. (Austin Mattes/battlefordsNOW)

Reflecting on their growth over the years, Yockey added:

“When they arrive in Grade 8, they’re wide-eyed and you know a little scared and timid, and to watch them develop over the years and become leaders at the school has been nothing short of outstanding,” he said.

Valedictorian Kaitlyn Wolfe addressed her peers with a heartfelt speech, encouraging them to embrace uncertainty and look forward to the future.

Many of the graduates receiving awards. (Austin Mattes/battlefordsNOW)

“Being valedictorian is really special, and it’s such an honour. I just wanted them to know that it’s OK to not quite have life figured out yet. I mean, we’re only 17/18 years old, we have a lot of time to figure that out,” she said.

Kaitlyn Wolfe was this year’s Valedictorian and Governor General medal recipient. (Austin Mattes/battlefordsNOW)

Wolfe also mentioned the mixed feelings she was experiencing.

“It feels great, honestly, but it’s a little bittersweet. I’m really going to miss the teachers, the people and the servery food. It’s just a really good community here at the school,” said Wolfe.

Graduate Paige Michaud echoed the emotional atmosphere, admitting the feeling of graduation is just beginning to sink in.

“It feels really weird, honestly. Like it still hasn’t hit me yet… it’s starting to hit a bit more now that I’m fully graduated, but I don’t know, it’s kind of scary,” Michaud said.

Paige Michaud was the recipient of the Student of the Year award. (Austin Mattes/battlefordsNOW)

Michaud added that she’ll miss the school’s sports programs, her favourite teachers, and, like Wolfe, the popular servery meals.

“The Greek ribs, the pasta alfredo and perogies and sausage, that’s my favourite. A lot of people like quesadillas too,” she chuckled.

Fellow graduate Kane Karay described the moment as both daunting and exciting.

“It feels more nerve-wracking, but I think I’m excited overall. A lot to look forward to and a bunch of things to do in life,” he said.

Looking back, Karay said the camaraderie of the class is what stood out the most.

“The best memories were, I could literally say anything because everyone had a good sense of humour. We were all really different, everyone was special, and I just love all these people, we grew up together and they are my second family,” he said.

As they step into new chapters of their lives, many of the students shared advice for younger classmates, whose shoes they were once in.

“Making good habits in Grade 8 is really important. If you show up to school, there’s no way you can fail. Just don’t skip, do your work, don’t be that guy who does nothing on the group projects and have fun,” Karay said.

“Don’t skip school and always try really hard because your grades in Grade 8, although you can’t fail, the work matters. So just do the work and you’ll pass,” Michaud added.

Graduates getting ready to throw their grad caps. (Austin Mattes/BattlefordsNOW)

With memories made and diplomas in hand, the John Paul II Collegiate Class of 2025 now heads off in different directions, some into the workforce, many to post-secondary studies and others off to travel, but all carrying on thing… the spirit and pride of what it means to be a John Paul II Collegiate Crusader.

Austin.mattes@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @AustinMattes

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