CHANGE ISLANDS -
The students of the Class of 2010 at A.R. Scammell Academy enjoyed the attention paid to them on their graduation day.
Being that there was only two of them meant that they got all the attention. The Pilot asked graduates Justine King and Nikita Brinson about their unique situation.
Justine attended A.R. Scammell Academy from Kindergarten to Grade 12. She wouldn't have wanted it any other way than to have just the two of them graduating.
"It feels normal that it's just the two of us because that's all I've ever been used to and I can't imagine it any other way," she said. "I really enjoyed sharing our special event together."
Through her school years Justine learned through traditional classroom teaching and also distance education in high school, which she said had it's advantages and disadvantages. But as for there being just two people in their grade, Justine didn't find that unusual.
Over the years she made the most of her school years through her involvement in volleyball, school council and tutoring.
"I did very much enjoy my school years on Change Islands," she said. "I could never ask for a better place to grow up.
"I will really miss going to school here because everyone is so close and it makes school so enjoyable - everyone is like family."
An important member of that school family is fellow graduate Nikita. Justine says the two have always been close, growing up as best friends in and outside of school.
"She's always been there and I am fortunate to have spent my school years with her," Justine said. "Nikita, I wish you all the best in the future, and like I said in my valedictory speech, I hope you live each day like it's your last, dream with your eyes wide open, and make every moment count. I am so glad to have you as my classmate and my best friend. I love you."
Justine plans to attend Memorial University in the fall, with hopes to move on to Dalhousie University to study dental hygiene. Leaving Change Islands is something she has mixed feelings about.
"I am excited about leaving, but at the same time I feel kind of sad because this is my home and it will be hard to leave, but I will never forget my home and the people here," she said. "I cannot see myself coming back here to live because there are not many job opportunities here, but I will always want to come home. There's no place like Change Islands."
To her teachers Justine extended her thanks.
"You have all been such wonderful people, we could not ask for any better," she said. "You have all been like family to us. Thank you so much."
To her family she added, "My family has been incredible. I love you all so much. I would never have made it to graduation without you all. Thank you all so very much for everything over the years, you will always hold a special place in my heart."
Nikita has also spent her school years at A.R. Scammell Academy where she "enjoyed each and every year."
Having just the two of them go through school and graduate together is also special to Nikita.
"Being the only two graduates, we have tried to keep each other on top of things," she said. "It has never seemed unusual to me that it would be only us two graduating, I guess because we got used to it and we enjoyed it so much. Justine and I have always been close friends, and I hope to always stay so close.
"Without Justine, our graduation would have been impossible. I'm very glad that I had her to share our special event with. I would like to thank Justine for always being there, not only in the classroom but as a best friend. I wish her all the best in the future."
Nikita also shared special thanks with special people in her life for being a special part of her life.
"I would also like to thank our parents, teachers and everyone who has helped us along our way. Last, but not least, I would like to thank my brother, Terrance, for taking the time to fly home to be with me on my special day."
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