November flew by at Port Hardy Secondary. The month was packed with events, starting with an amazing performance by a musical group called, “Wheat in The Barley.” Offering an eclectic mix of toe-tapping folk and traditional music, this accomplished group also provided stories and insights into a variety of instruments, including the fiddle, the flute, and the pennywhistle.
On a more solemn note we had our M.A.D.D. assembly, a presentation reminding all of us of the dangers of impaired driving, with motivational speakers whose own firsthand understanding of the consequences were sobering to us all.
The Junior Rangers, along with our Students’ Council, hosted our annual Remembrance Day ceremony. Mr. George Kearey, a veteran of WWII, was our guest speaker. He brought many interesting wartime items to share with us, including dogtags and photographs, which he shared with interested students at the end of the ceremony.
November wound down with a career fair, where students in grades 10 through 12 had a chance to learn more about options for work and school after high school. Universities and colleges came from all over the Island and the Lower Mainland to share program and campus information with students.
Our grads were also busily baking for their Cookies by the Pound fundraiser, held at Thunderbird Mall. It was successful and well attended; we thank everyone who made a contribution to the grads. Students’ Council helped everyone relax, as we headed into December, by having a Pajama Day during which fuzzy clothing and Ugg comfort ruled the day. We wrapped up November with an indoor lockdown practice. For many students, it was an eye-opener as we locked doors and closed the shutters, and spoke in hushed tones as we awaited the “all clear” announcement.
Now we start the countdown to the much-anticipated winter break, a countdown that begins with senior students going on a college and university look-about down-Island. We hope the promise of clear skies and sunshine continues for this journey.
Alexandra Southgate and Alisha MacDonald are Grade 12 students at Port Hardy Secondary School.