Fort Franklin (July 10/06) - A record 15 students graduated from Deline's ?Ehtseo Ayha school 2006 class.

They make up the largest number of graduates of any Sahtu school this year according to Christina Gaudet, the community's senior administrative officer.

They join ranks to add up to a total of 25 students graduating from the school in the last two years.

That's even more impressive when you consider the school only had two students earn diplomas in 2004.

The growing list of graduates from Deline bodes very well for the future said Gaudet.

"It sets a good example for the students still in school," she said. "The 15 graduates from this year are good role models for the future ... and the leaders of tomorrow."

The hamlet actually hired on two of the graduates, Warren Baton and Matilda Modeste, to help out in the recreation department.

Thus far they've helped organize the community's Canada Day celebrations and a day camp for younger kids along with handling other projects as well.

"They've been a big help even though they've only been with us for a short time," said Gaudet.

Not all of the recent graduates have been lucky enough to land summer jobs just yet. Some, like 17-year-old Blair Yukon, are still waiting by the phone to find out if their applications will be successful.

But that certainly hasn't put a damper on things for Yukon.

"It's a big relief having high school done, especially being so young," she said.

Yukon is the first among her six siblings - five brothers and one sister - to earn a diploma. "My parents were very proud," she said.

Next up for the Deline youth will hopefully be a move to Fort Smith in the fall.

"I've applied to the teacher education program at Aurora College," she said. "I love being around kids and want to be a teacher here in Deline ."