Indigenous Graduation 2026
On May 27, 2026, the Splatsin Community Centre in Enderby was filled with celebration, culture, and community as K̓wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl’ecw School District No. 83 hosted its annual Indigenous Graduation Ceremony. Families, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, staff, and community members gathered to honour the achievements of this year’s graduates in a meaningful and culturally grounded event.
One hundred and thirteen graduates were recognized from five schools, including A.L. Fortune Secondary, Eagle River Secondary, Pleasant Valley Secondary, Salmon Arm Secondary, and Salmon Arm Storefront. The evening began with the graduates’ procession, accompanied by the Welcome Song performed by 18 future graduate drummers along with Knowledge Keeper Laureen Felix and the Indigenous Education Department Drum Team.
Masters of Ceremony Tori Jewell and Chelsey Hill, SD83 Indigenous Education Workers, led a program that brought together cultural protocol, community voices, and student celebration.
Opening words of gratitude and welcome were shared by Quelmúcw Education Council Chair Nerissa Joseph and Knowledge Keeper Virginia Woolridge from Skwlāx, alongside remarks on behalf of Chief and Council and the Board of Education.
Amanda Krebs, Board of Education Vice Chair, congratulated the graduates and shared that they are the first graduating class to do so under the newly gifted name, K̓wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl’ecw.
Valedictorian speeches from each of the five schools highlighted personal stories of perseverance and growth, while also expressing heartfelt thanks to staff and family members.
Cultural elements were woven throughout the evening, including an Honour Song led by the Knowledge Keeper Laureen Felix and the Indigenous Education Department Drum Team as well as the Passing of the Eagle Staff, symbolizing leadership and the responsibility of hosting the event in the following year.
The ceremony concluded with congratulatory closing remarks delivered by Assistant Superintendent of Indigenous Education and Student Supports Chelsea Prince and District Principal of Indigenous Education Kristen Crawford, followed by the Travelling Song, sending graduates forward in a good way.
Special thanks are extended to Abundant Specialty, Amy Sampson & Andrea Martin, Cahoots Kitchen, Diane Jewell, H2O4U, Ihana Images, Joanne Buffalo, Laureen Felix, Nico’s Nurseryland, Splatsin Community Centre, S’Wichcraft, and Tori Jewell & Chelsey Hill, along with the Indigenous Education Department and Drum Team, whose generosity and dedication helped make the celebration possible.
The 2026 Indigenous Graduation Ceremony was a powerful reflection of pride, connection, and achievement. Congratulations to all graduates—your hard work, resilience, and perseverance are celebrated, and your communities stand proudly behind you as you move forward on your journeys.
Top left - A.L. Fortune grads
Top middle - Eagle River grads
Top right - Pleasant Valley grads
Left - Salmon Arm Secondary grads
Right - Salmon Arm Storefront grads
