Darrell Greer
Northern News Services

Rankin Inlet (Aug 29/01) - An even dozen students received their Grade 12 diplomas at Alaittuq high school in Rankin Inlet this past Saturday.

The students brought the total number of graduates the school has produced in its three-year history up to 40, having graduated 10 students in 1998-99 and 18 in 1999-2000.

Alaittuq High principal Donald Clark says the Class of 2001 (Jesusa David, Matthew Fredlund, Debra Kabluitok, Kuutsiq (Charlotte) Kusugak, Kelly Clark, Sharon Owlijoot, Jody Roach, Ashley Dean, Jordy Ulurksit, Trisha Makpah, Qovik Netser and Johnny Ugjuk) has raised more funds for its graduation than any of the school's previous graduating classes.

"We have three students who need one more course to graduate, so if those kids had made it we'd only have dropped three from the previous year, which isn't bad," says Clark.

"The number of grads seems to go in cycles in our region and we're hoping to have a big graduating year for the Class of 2002."

Among the highlights of the Class of 2001 is Udjuk, who completed the school system with sign language and special needs support.

Clark points to Udjuk as an excellent role model for all students, especially those who have trouble focusing and achieving their goals.

"It wasn't easy for Johnny. It took a lot of hard work on his behalf and that of school staff members.

"He's a mature student and older students are welcome if they're willing to put in the effort."

As for moving on after graduation, Dean and Roach will be attending Nunavut Sivuniksavut in Ottawa, while Clark is off to Holland College's Atlantic Culinary Institute in Charlottetown.

Clark says the students in the Class of 2001 are true graduates of Alaittuq high school, something they've earned and will have for life.

"The majority of students should be able to graduate from high school, if given the proper guidance and support from parents, teachers and the community."