Individual Learning Centre (ILC)

Ana,  you did it! First of all, I would like to take this opportunity to admire your outfit for this evening! This outfit was made almost entirely by Ana herself, including the beading and wolf fur trimmed robe and ribbon skirt. Ana, wow so creative, I would have no idea where to start if i were to try and make myself a piece of clothing. We all have our strengths and our weaknesses and that's what's so great about ILC. When I first met Ana she was very shy and hesitant to work with me. Over the months Ana gained confidence and shared with me her interest in comic books. Not only did she like them, but she had notebooks filled with character sketches describing every aspect about them. Ana uses her tablet to draw incredible comics. Ana will continue to work on her storytelling skills and will one day share this gift with everyone.

Ana, you are strong and beautiful and if you want something do not be afraid to strive for it.  

Evelyn, whew we made it. Let me first start off by saying we are all so proud of you.  You are such a kind and gentle soul. Everyone has hardships as they go through life, however, you've had to deal with so much at such a young age. You are one of the bravest and most courageous people I have ever met. It would be easy to do nothing; the courage you show everyday gives me strength to help other people everyday. I think when we experience hardship it really shows us what is really important in life. You light up every room you walk into. Whether it's supporting your closest friends or sharing your beliefs and ideas. Evelyn, I have only known you for a short time, but you will leave a lasting impression on me.

Evelyn was a huge supporter of our Indigenous Leadership Group and was quite active in the district student voice meetings, sharing different ideas around mental health and how to support Indigenous students. 

Evelyn will be attending W̱SÁNEĆ College full time in September. If all goes to plan she wants to attend Camosun and then UVIC to pursue Indigenous Law. 

Evelyn, no matter what you do or where you go, one thing is for sure, you will have a lasting impact on those around you. 

Ben’s Six Nations Indigenous heritage comes through his mother’s side of the family. Ben has been a Broadmead ILC student since joining our school community for grade 9. He is one of our strongest attenders and thank goodness because he brings such wonderful energy into our classroom every day! He is a model student in both his character and his academic achievement. He brings positivity and encouragement to staff and students on the daily! He has a delightful sense of humour and is amazing to chat with about philosophy and spirituality. Ben’s academic achievements are also truly impressive! For example, He has excelled in Robotics and Engineering design, scoring 97% in Engineering Design 11, 100% in Physics 11 at Claremont and 99% in the TEAC Dual Credit course with Camosun! This summer he is headed off to Camp Bow-isle for another year as a camp counsellor, setting and being a positive example for younger campers. Ben, you are an inspiration to all of us and we will truly miss seeing you each day at ILC.

Jax is a talented artist and anime/manga enthusiast, always adorned with a big pair of over-ear headphones. His quiet presence at Broadmead has belied a serious academic prowess and cerebral depth. Jax plans to attend Camosun in the Fall to pursue an eventual career as a pharmacist because quote “they make a lot of money.” Congratulations, Jax! 

Leila is one of a kind. She is fierce- her energy is matched by her wry wit and steely determination. And it is exactly these attributes that lead her successfully through her often turbulent school high career, including successfully completing the 10 month long Hairstylist Foundation program! Leila pulls no punches; she calls it exactly as she sees it, and while you might not agree with all her strong opinions, it is invigorating to speak to someone who cares so deeply, who in a world of increasing apathy, has so much passion for change. While Leila comes alive in a good debate, her spark burns the brightest when she is speaking of those she loves, and she attributes many of her successes to their support. Leila, congratulations on your graduation. We look forward to seeing you take the world by storm.

George’s Indigenous ancestry is Huu-ay-aht through his mother’s side. George came to ILC from Bayside as a young grade 9 student; he was cross-enrolled with Stellys in grade 10, and later transitioned to our Take a Hike Program where he finished his courses for graduation. If you interact with George for even a very short period of time, you quickly discover how wonderfully good-natured and kind he is; his positive energy elevates the moods of those around him, and you just enjoy being in his presence. Unsurprisingly, he made a lot of good friends at school that he has remained connected with since graduating in January. Another word that comes to mind when I think of George is Resilience: he has been through a lot and has kept moving forward as his good-natured, warm, kind, and positive self. He is currently working hard as a full-time line cook at Brewskies and has been living independently for the past two years. He bought his first car about a month ago and he hopes to own a house one day! We wish you well in all your future goals George, and we are grateful for the ways you shared the gift of your presence with us at ILC.

Braelyn - I did it! I got through high-school. Even though I felt I couldn't achieve graduation here I am. I of course didn't complete this on my own but I managed with the consistent extra support and help from Jen and Bishop. I cannot thank you both enough, not only for helping me but for dealing with my sassiness. Jen I especially appreciate you for always nagging me when I'm not at school (even if it was annoying). However, I'm not done school just yet, the reason being that after I leave ILC I will be following my dream to work with Animals. Yay!!

A big special thanks to my family because no matter how much I struggled, they knew I could do this and I could not be more grateful. My family is one of the biggest supports I have in my life. I will say, I wont miss the learning part of ILC but I will miss the staff. Time to move on to the next chapter of my life. 

Bye ILC!

Conner - So, I made it! I wish to give a big thank you to Judy and all the staff at ILC that contributed to helping me get to school, I couldn't have done it without all your guys help these last few years. I wish to also thank my mom, dad, and my siblings for making me believe that I will make something out of myself.

I would like to thank all my friends that stayed true to their word and were there for me when I needed them.

I want to give a huge thank you to my partner, Rose for helping me get through my hardest times and teaching me to be the person I am and quite frankly just being amazing.

Always remember to have faith in yourself and in the end of the day remember "you" are the only one you can truly rely on in life, not in the way of rejecting every helping hand that reaches out but taking help when its needed and also remembering not to take hand-outs either. forget about being cool and your image just focus on improving yourself as a quality human being in ways you can, be the person you want to be!

For anyone who knows him, it will likely come as no surprise that, when hearing this was being written, Conner immediately wanted to make sure that I started it off by telling his friends and family how much he loves and appreciates them and how thankful he is to them for supporting him through his hardest times. This kind of heart and character is the Conner we have seen in the classroom as well. Since joining ILC as a student in 2019, Conner has been an awesome example of consistent growth. Persevering through any obstacle, he is friendly and kind, and has developed strong leadership qualities. While working hard academically, Conner has also maintained a busy work schedule at Big Wheel Burger as well - that work ethic will undoubtedly mean that he will have success as he pursues a career in Carpentry after graduation. Conner, good luck in everything you set off to do - whether it’s in Alberta or wherever life takes you- we are so very proud of you. Congratulations!

Dom - I'm thankful for the time I spent learning at ILC and thankful for everyone that helped me graduate. I am excited to pursue a career in the electrical field in the near future.

Dom came to us at ILC after he completed the TASK program, a program he truly excelled in, and he has put the same amount of hard work into completing his graduation requirements. Dom has brought a calmly confident presence to both the TASK program as well as to the classroom, and his persistence and consistency have allowed him to showcase his work-ethic and skills. He tends to show up, put his head down and complete his work to a high quality - but if you’re lucky enough to catch him at the right time, he will take the time to talk a little about his pride and appreciation for his family and all their support, as well as his pride in being a part of the Tsartlip First Nation. After graduation, Dominick is planning on taking the steps to becoming an electrician, another goal we have no doubt he will accomplish with excellence! 

Way to go, Dom, congratulations!

Elina

Ella-Rose - ILC has taught me how important time management is and that is a skill I will be using for all the years to come. I am so thankful for the support Morgan and Lidia have given me these past couple of months and made it possible

Jennea - Behind you, all of your memories. Before you, all of your dreams. Around you, all who love you. Within you, all you need. Class of 2024.

I'm so grateful for my parents for pushing me through school and always believing in me. They always say the right thing at the right time.. I'm super thankful for the teachers here at ILC for always being supportive and encouraging always brightening the classroom with smiles. I'm Thankful to Del for giving me rides to and from school. No words can explain how thankful I am to everyone who had a part in my school journey. I'm grateful for my siblings for reminding me everyday to strive and try my best. This is an amazing chapter I am proud to have accomplished and couldn't have done it without you all. I pray and wish nothing but good blessings for the upcoming paths that all of us graduate's are about to part take. School wasn't easy but I am sure nothing great in life comes easy without hard work and consistency which we all proved, we're more than capable of doing so if we really wanted to.

The milestones don't stop here, keep reaching for your goals and never give up no matter what anyone tells you. Brush off the negatively and bad vibes, sometimes focusing on yourself is a good option that we often forget to choose. ILC helped me see that. Here's to the next chapter..

HISKWE- Thank You

GRAD 2024!!! WOOO

Jordon - thank you to friends and family for helping me get here and for supporting me.

JT has been part of the Take-a-Hike program for the last 2 years, where he has been a kind, calm, well-liked member of that circle. A member of the Pauquachin First Nation, Jordan has participated in the Indigenous Student Voices meetings, as well as the Indigenous Leadership lunches, and was one of the crew who attended the Tri-District Camp Thunderbird Day for Indigenous grads this year. The biggest thing that stands out to me when I think about JT is his smile and how quick he is to laugh. I knew how he helped brighten my day many times, I’m sure without even realizing it, but when I spoke to some of his friends and the Take-a-hike staff, I realized the amazing impact he has had on so many people. Across the board, Jordan was described as someone who “cares so much”, as “a good listener and a loyal friend” who would give you his last sandwich if you were starving - even if he was also starving. I heard a story about how, when a friend of his was injured recently, JT refused to leave his buddy’s side until he knew everything was fine. Jordan, your heart and your character are inspiring. You have worked so hard to get to this moment - we really hope you enjoy it! You have made it to graduation - congratulations and way to go!

Luther : Thank you to my friends and family for believing in me when I didn’t. Thank you to my teachers for being amazing. I’m not a writer. “It’s cause I’m brown, isn’t it.” TAH was ight. Houdini-Eminem 2:14

The hardest part about writing this to celebrate Luther - or should I say, the hardest thing about writing this for the future Chief- was figuring out how to narrow down all the stories and ways to describe him - and I mean that in all the best ways! Out of all the conversations I had though, shy was never a word I ever heard anyone use to describe Luther, and honestly, we put his outgoingness to great use, as he quickly became someone we could count on to bring people together- in part because of Luther, we went from having just 1 student attend the Tri-District Camp Thunderbird grad day last year, to needing a school bus to transport everyone this year! Though he has been a student in the Take-a-Hike Program, where he worked hard to complete his grad requirements, his mischievous charm that meant that myself - and I’m sure some other staff - would happily “sneak” Bubblies or snacks to him whenever we’d see his head poking through the doorway on the ILC side of the school! I have been privileged enough to see first-hand how Luther’s pride in his culture as a member of Tsawout First Nation, and his willingness to speak up for what he believes in, have encouraged others to embrace their own Indigenous ancestry as well. It will definitely be a quieter school next year, Luther, and, though we are all sad to see you go, we are also so proud of you at the same time! Congratulations!

Matias - Thank you!! I would like to say thank you to everyone at ILC. Thank you to Shelley for a warm welcome and a smile everyday.

Thank you to Morgan, Peter, Gwen, David, Lidia, Colleen, Steve, Colleen, and Lara for your daily support!

Thank you Mum and Dad for pushing me everyday to be better! I couldn’t have done it without any of you!

From not showing up for a weeks at a time to showing up everyday of the week, ILC has been an up and down journey. Through all of my time at ILC I’ve learned three important lessons -

#1 Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You never know how much help you might need.

#2 Never give up. I dropped out of school for about a year in grade 10. I decided to give it another go at ILC and now I’m graduating!

#3 Discipline. Hard work makes easy work.

Patti-Ann - I can’t believe I finished high school! And I couldn’t do it without my parents, they’ve pushed me to finish and grad ever since I started high school. For after school I just plan on working and going with the flow. I would like to thank Del she has helped with rides to school, my school work and with anything else she was willing to help me. I would also like to thank all the staff at ILC, they’re so kind and always checking in on me and other students.

Patti-Ann joined us at ILC by way of Stelly’s, after first taking part in the Take-a-Hike Program. We have seen Patti-Ann consistently grow in confidence, and she has used her voice to help provide input for the School District in the Indigenous Student Voices meetings, as well as becoming a strong role model, in and out of the classroom, as part of the Indigenous Leadership group. Patti-Ann has shared a lot about her love for her culture as a member of the Tsartlip First Nation, and for her family who have provided her with unconditional love and guidance. Today, especially, she wants to honor her late beloved grandma, Madeline. After graduation, Patti-Ann would like to work with children; we know, Patti-Ann, that your compassion, your kindness, and your work ethic will help you achieve anything you put your mind to, & we can’t wait to hear about your adventures! Seeing you put in the amount of effort and perseverance that you did in getting to graduation was an honor for us all at ILC. Congratulations! You did it!

Reuben - Reuben came to us at ILC from Stelly’s in January of 2023. Though quiet in the classroom, Reuben has earned the respect of his peers and the staff alike, due to the calming presence he brings, as well as the high caliber of work that he puts into every assignment. 

He is not someone who is ok with just “good enough” but rather, he is precise, purposeful, and has an incredible work ethic; and if you ask his English teacher, Bishop, Reuben only ever presented his very best work. Though a person of few words - at least at school- Reuben did want me to say “thank you” to his parents. 

Reuben is planning on pursuing Computer Sciences and Fine Arts at UVIC, by way of Camosun College and has remarkably managed to complete his high school academics while also taking a college course at the same time. We all have no doubt that we will be hearing about all the incredible accomplishments he will have as he embarks on this next chapter. Thank you for inspiring us all with your dedication in achieving your goals, Reuben. 

Way to go!

Emma

Emma is an incredibly authentic, intelligent and resourceful person who can always be counted on to stand up for what she believes in. A deeply loving & loyal friend and family member, Emma’s greatest love is for her beloved son. An amazing cook, Emma cooks a lot for her family, and also attends all after school cooking events. She also has been a valued member of our Indigenous Leadership group. After graduation, Emma plans on attending Camosun College in one of their trades programs. We wish you all the very best as you embark on your next adventures Emma! Way to go! 

Jaiden

Jaiden is someone who lives her life with an open and loving heart, especially when it comes to her sister, Elina. A strong, forward thinker, she works hard when she has goals she wants to achieve. Jaiden is a gifted writer, and especially shows her heart and wisdom through her poetry. Always up for both hard work, and laughter, Jaiden will happily challenge anyone to a tomato-eating contest! We can’t wait to hear about all your future adventures & accomplishments and are so proud of you, Jaiden! 

Marshall 

Marshall is an awesome example of “quiet strength”, and has proven himself to be a young man of character and determination. We have seen him grow personally and academically, and his perseverance has brought him to this great accomplishment! After graduation, Marshall is planning on finding employment and spending time with his family while he awaits whatever adventures life takes him on.

Congratulations, Marshall and all the best!

Nakeeya 

Nakeeya is friendly and kind, and has shown true determination and commitment in getting to this moment and completing her highschool career. Nakeeya continuously displays courage, and a will to grow and succeed and has been a valuable part of our Indigenous Leadership group. Nakeeya wants to thank everyone who supported her and believed in her when she didn’t always believe in herself - most especially her family, who have been with her every step of the way; as well as the staff at ILC. Congratulations, Nakeeya… we are so proud of you! 

Paige

Paige’s journey to graduation has seen her triumph over any obstacle in her path, and she is a great inspiration in the way she continues to grow in ability, confidence and maturity. Paige is an animal-lover and has 5 dogs at home that she takes care of everyday. She has many amazing aspirations for her life after graduation - including becoming a rare female-carver, opening a restaurant, & maybe even becoming chief one day - but all her dreams include the most important and loved people in her life - her family. Paige’s heart, humour and perseverance have made her well-liked and respected by her classmates and staff alike. We’re so proud of you Paige, good luck! 

Rose 

Rose has a truly lovely heart, and it shines through to everyone lucky enough to spend time with her. She has shown strength and determination throughout her time at ILC but especially this final grade 12 year. Rose is proud to be a member of the Tsartlip community . She wants to make sure that she says a big thank you to her parents, Ivy & Joe Seward & her brother Joe Jr for all the love and support they give her; she also wants to honour her grandparents, Ivan & Medeline Morris who she loves and misses everyday. Rose, you have worked so hard to get here & we couldn’t be more proud of you - Congratulations, you did it! 

Asheya

A hard working and diligent student that has a quiet grace about her, Asheya is someone that has proven that she is not afraid to challenge herself in her courses. She is well respected by her peers and staff. Asheya has grown in confidence and shows all the skills of a confident leader. She has helped our Indigenous Leadership group grow, and we will be sad to see her go. Good luck Asheya!!! 

Breanna 

Breanna is a lovely young lady who may seem quiet, but has a fun personality and a huge heart. Volunteering at Parkland, she is going above and beyond in pursuing her dreams and goals within education. She has shown courage and determination to complete her grade 12 year and this work ethic will push her beyond to be successful in her future endeavors. A beautiful smile that lights up the room. Wish you all the best Breanna, good luck!

Jamie 

Jamie is a kind, friendly, thoughtful  person, who has shown great perseverance and determination in pushing through challenges that have come his way, resulting in, both, academic and personal accomplishments and growth. He participated in both the TASK and STAC programs, and is planning on enrolling in the Foundation Program at Camosun College after graduation. Jamie wants to acknowledge how important his family are to him, as well as his Cowichan and Ahousaht heritages. He also wishes to thank Brandon Heyer, Del Horrill, and Kat Hiebert for their support at ILC.

Congratulations Jamie! We are excited to hear about all your future adventures!

Jayden 

Jayden is a friendly, easy-going student who has been a great addition to ILC. He is an intelligent and deep-thinker with great insight into society and its systems. Jayden is a passionate and dedicated artist and would like to pursue a career as a tattoo artist after graduation. While cross-enrolled, Jayden completed a table mural at Stelly’s, which was highly regarded as a true work of art. Congratulations on your achievements, Jayden; we wish you all the best!

Johnny 

Johnny is a friendly, well-liked student, who is respected by both the staff and his peers alike. A proud member of the Tsawout First Nations, Johnny is involved in various activities, such as playing soccer and baseball on his Community teams. He participated enthusiastically in the TASK program, inspiring him to look at opportunities for employment that will allow him to work with his hands in the future. Johnny would like to thank all those who have supported him throughout the years in achieving this great accomplishment, including Carmine Sparanese, Deb Nikkel, Sue Paltiel, and Delpheen Horrill.

We wish you all the very best, Johnny - Congratulations!

Kelsey 

Kelsey is a friendly, dedicated student, who displays a natural quiet but confident leadership ability. Her perseverance and willingness to tackle challenges and try new things are inspiring to so many. Kelsey combines a strong work ethic with a passion for working with children, and that has taken her into the EACS Program this school year. She plans on moving forward with this career path after graduation. Way to go, Kelsey! We look forward to hearing about your new adventures.

Stephen 

Stephen is from the ‘Namgis First Nation in Alert Bay and resides in Tsawout. Stephen has been a student of ILC, Stelly’s, and participated in the TASK Program. Talented athlete, He has shown himself to be equally dedicated to his studies. He has worked hard this year to get admitted into the EACS Program, which he will be wrapping up this summer and plans to take the first steps in this career next school year. Congratulations and all the best in this next step, Stephen!

Bri P

Bri has ancestry from Campbell River and Tsartlip First Nation, and has been cross-enrolled between Stelly’s and ILC for the last three years. Bri has a creative and inquisitive mind, and a deep passion for the arts - including performing in several musical theatre performances throughout high school. Bri plans to attend Camosun next school year with future plans to transfer to UVic’s performing Arts program. All the best in this next step Bri!

Chakotay W 

Chakotay is from the Xeni Gwet’in First Nation and has attended Parkland and ILC. Chakotay excelled in the TASK and STAC trades and carpentry programs. In those programs Chakotay demonstrated strong skills and developed his leadership abilities. We wish him all the best applying those skills in his future career path. Congratulations Chakotay!

Danielle P

Danielle is from Tsartlip First Nation. She completed the VIU hair program last year and finished with exceptional marks. In the classroom at ILC she proved to be a kind and hard-working student who was focused on her goals from day one. Danielle has applied for the Health Care Assistant program for September. Congratulations, and all the best in your next steps Danielle!

Ivy J

Ivy is from Pauquachin First Nation and has been an ILC student for the past four years. Ivy has made tremendous leaps as a learner at ILC, and we are so proud of her growth. Ivy has athletic strengths and loves nature. She hopes to work with animals in the future and is currently exploring opportunities in that field. Congratulations Ivy and all the best for the future!

Kai R

Kai has Metis ancestry, and is ILC’s valedictorian this school year. He has shown himself to be a tremendously focused learner, and has excelled equally in both the trades workshops of the TASK and STAC programs as well as the traditional academic classroom. Kai is currently working and exploring apprenticeship options in carpentry, and hoping to pursue red seal certification in the future. Congratulations Kai!

Malachi H

Malachi has Cree ancestry and has been attending ILC for the last four years. During his high school journey, Malachi has impressed us all by consistently demonstrating a willingness to step out of his comfort zone and try new and different challenges. Malachi is creative and academically strong, and those strengths will serve him well in his plans to attend post-secondary next school year. Congratulations Malachi!

Patrick E

Patrick is from the Tsartlip First Nation. In the classroom, Patrick is a kind and hard-working student, and has demonstrated his athletic strength throughout his high school journey, playing on school and community soccer teams. Patrick has plans to enter into the language revitalization program at UVic in the near future, and we wish him all the best on that path!

Riley D

Riley has Cree ancestry and is a kind and considerate soul with a creative nature. In her years at ILC, we have been struck by her determination and her willingness to step out of her comfort zone and try new things. Riley engaged with the VIU Hairstylist program and has plans to pursue training in the automotive industry. Best of luck in your next steps Riley!

Roman C

Roman is from the Klahoose First Nation, and has been a Stelly’s and ILC student. Recently, Roman has excelled in the STAC carpentry program. Over these past few months Roman has shown great dedication and enthusiasm for learning and growing his skills in carpentry. We have no doubt these skills and growth mindset will serve Roman well in the future, congratulations Roman!

Students involved in a music workshop with Jon Etzel Jr. 

Students learning the history of SṈIDȻEȽ from Earl Claxton Jr. 

Students enjoying the sunshine at SṈIDȻEȽ with Earl Claxton Jr. 

Students and staff discussing leadership and community service with Joni Olsen. 

Hummingbird Library- SŦOŦȽE 

Emma B successful TASK program participant working on the construction of the Hummingbird Library shelf unit.  We look forward to following Emma’s career path within the Trades industry.  

During this Hummingbird library opening, district post secondary Indigenous liaison and author Shane Hartman read from his book Isla’s New Drum with the Beacon Community Pre-School students.  A joyous moment of sharing and celebration! 

Grace G

Grace has been an ILC student since she was in grade 10. Despite facing significant health issues, she has continued to engage with her education and we commend her for her determination and grit. Grace is a baker, and has generously supplied the staff and students at ILC with her goodies, just out of the blue, many a time over the last few years. She is also a top-notch student and has displayed her abilities across a variety of subjects as she worked toward graduation. She is investigating a possible career in Architecture and sees herself attending Camosun college in the future. Congratulations Grace.

Jaden H

Jaden's ILC journey has not always been easy, but he has impressed us all with his resilience to come back from setbacks, and determination to continue doing the hard work of showing up day in and day out to get it done. We were especially proud of Jaden's efforts in the fall to complete his last grad requirement in time for the new year! Jaden, we will miss your humorous ways around the classroom, and we wish you the very best in your next steps! 

Devin P

Devin, Devin, you have blessed our ILC classroom with your sense of humour, your style and that mischievous twinkle in your eye. No matter what you put your mind to, we know you will do wonderfully. Thank you for imparting on us your love of classic music and your herbal tea passion with all of us at ILC. Congratulations buddy! We are so proud of you. 

Congratulations to Jericho Voyageur. From TASK program in 2015 to completing his high school graduation and most recently his Camosun Level One carpentry program! Bravo