WSD Class of 2026: Carrying Learning Forward

Graduation marks the completion of more than 12 years of learning, inquiring, creating, reflecting, and growing. Across Winnipeg School Division's thirteen high schools and adult education centre, the Class of 2026 is made up of thousands graduates who have reached this milestone through perseverance, curiosity, and the support of their school communities. As they cross the stage, they leave with more than a diploma, they carry forward the knowledge, relationships, and experiences that will guide them in the years ahead.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Throughout their time at WSD schools, the high school experience is shaped by far more than academics alone. Students have spent their years taking part in athletics, student leadership, arts programs, spirit days, land-based learning days, clubs, performances, and school-wide events that bring communities together. There have been memorable victories, challenging exams, standing ovations, school celebrations, and countless moments of growth.

These experiences help make school more than a place to learn; they are where students build friendships, discover passions, develop confidence, and begin to understand who they are and who they want to become. As St. John’s High School valedictorian Aeyla Antique shared, "I believe some of the most important lessons we've learned in our lives started right in these very classrooms, our places of safety where we learned and practised how to grow."

While many students experience the traditional high school journey, graduation is the realization of a lifelong dream in many ways. Winnipeg Adult Education Centre (WAEC) is a powerful reminder that there is no single path to success. Each year, mature students return to complete their high school education, determined to achieve a goal that once felt out of reach. In doing so, they inspire their children, families, and communities, showing that it is never too late to pursue your goals and that learning truly lasts a lifetime.

For many, this milestone becomes a celebration shared across entire families. Behind every diploma is a network of encouragement: family members, friends, parents, and children who offered guidance through assignments, stood by them through class days and exams, and helped them persevere until they crossed the stage. Their support is an essential part of each graduate’s journey, and a reminder that achievement is often built together.

Excellence Through Rigour and Dedication

We also recognize graduates whose exceptional academic achievement has earned them one of Canada’s highest student honours: the Governor General’s Academic Bronze Medal. Established in 1873, the medal is awarded to the graduating student at every high school across Canada who achieves the highest academic standing in their school. We are very proud of this diverse and dedicated group of student leaders who represent excellence in WSD. 

Learning That Carries Forward

As this year's graduates prepare for what comes next, whether entering post-secondary education, beginning a career, pursuing a trade, or exploring new opportunities, they do so with the confidence and values developed throughout their time in WSD. Graduation is not the end of learning, but the beginning of a new chapter where classroom experiences continue to shape who they become.

To the Class of 2026, congratulations on this remarkable achievement. As you begin your next chapter, carry forward the curiosity, compassion, and integrity that have brought you this far. In the words of WSD Superintendent & CEO, Matt Henderson, “Continue to listen, continue to question, continue to develop deep relationships. Continue to lift people up... Continue to do what is right, especially when no one is looking.” 

The future is yours, and we cannot wait to see where your journey leads.