Darell Greer
Northern News Services

Rankin Inlet (Aug 30/00) - Alaittuq high school graduates made history last Saturday.

The class of 2000 is the largest graduating class ever in Rankin. A total of 18 graduates -- five boys and 13 girls -- picked up their high school diplomas.

Principal Donald Clark says the graduates left behind a positive atmosphere.

"We had some really outstanding students in that group of 18," says Clark.

"There were also some students who stuck with it and refused to give up when the going got tough."

Clark says moving to the new school two years ago, for grades nine to 12 students, has helped create a feelingof confidence among the students.

"Grade 9 students certainly feel that a bit when they come over, that they're now in senior high as compared to junior high."

Clark says graduating 18 students resulted from a combination of three factors: students' efforts, parental support and staff efforts.

"I'm not saying the teaching staff at other schools is not as good, but having 18 graduates here is proof that something's working."

Clark says the success of this year's class sends a message to parents that you can't forget about the kids when they reach the senior high level.

"They still need their parents' encouragement to stick with it.

"It's key for these students to have solid support at home when they reach these higher levels.

"They still need that reminder when they're that close, not to give up."

The graduates include Adriana Clark, Ujaralaaq Eno, George Henrie, Germaine Kaludjak, Gloria Kowtak, Taina Kubluitok, Warren Kusugak, Naomi MacCullum, Samantha Owlijoot, Gorretti Panika, Kristen Schindel, Sheila Sharp, Pakak Sigurdson, Stuart Siksik, Meda Suwaksiork, Charlene Tatty, Jeff Tulugak, and Krista Zawadski.