PECS welcomes back 2023 graduates Community Education by Beverly Bidney - June 19, 2023June 19, 2023 High school graduates from the class of 2023 return to their former school – Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School – for a grad walk May 19, 2023. From left to right are Bryce Ward, Leviticus Billie, Charlie Armstrong, Wyatt Hines and Winnie Gopher. (Photo Beverly Bidney) Members of the Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School eighth grade class of 2019 returned triumphant as high school graduates May 19 for the school’s annual grad walk. The 19 alumni walked through the same breezeways they did earlier in their academic lives. They were greeted by the school’s current students and teachers, who shared high fives, hugs and proud smiles. The grad walk has been a tradition at PECS since 2016. It is meant to be an inspiration for current students and demonstrate the success of reaching graduation. PECS is a pre-K through eighth grade school. 2023 high school graduates, who are also PECS alumni, gather at their former school which honored them May 19, 2023. (Photo Beverly Bidney) Before the walk, the group gathered in the gym for a slide show from their eighth grade end-of-the-year ceremony, which evoked laughter. They also enjoyed snacks and time to mingle together. PECS principal Tracy Downing congratulated the graduates on their accomplishment. “Now is the time to take what you learned and apply it to the real world,” Downing said. “You will face challenges, setbacks and uncertainties along the way, but remember that these are opportunities for growth and learning.” She told the students not to be afraid to take risks, try new things and step outside of their comfort zone. PECS alumnus Chayton Billie receives applause as he walks the breezeways of PECS during the grad walk. (Photo Beverly Bidney) “It’s through these experiences that you will discover your passions and develop your skills,” Downing said. “Be true to yourself and you will lead a much happier life.” Brian Greseth, former PECS principal and current director of administrative services and deputy superintendent at Glades County School District, also spoke to the students. He told them to continue their education even if they don’t know what they want to do in life. He said most students change their majors three times and going to school is where they can figure things out. “Stay in touch with each other,” Greseth said. “I am 62 years old and every year I still get together with my middle school classmates.” A sampling of what immediately lies ahead for the graduates includes college, trade school, the Marines or just figure things out on the fly. “Stay in touch with each other,” Greseth said. “I am 62 years old and every year I still get together with my middle school classmates.” A sampling of what immediately lies ahead for the graduates includes college, trade school, the Marines or “just figure things out on the fly.” From left to right, Shylynn Testerman, Mariana Mora-Lara and Cheyenne Lara accept the recognition and applause of young PECS students and teachers during the school’s annual grad walk. (Photo Beverly Bidney) Juanita Billie hugs a PECS teacher as she makes her way through PECS during the grad walk. (Photo Beverly Bidney) Jace Brown hugs a PECS teacher as he makes his way through the breezeways of the school. (Photo Beverly Bidney) Current PECS students congratulate the school alumni who graduated high school in 2023. (Photo Beverly BIdney) Share on Facebook Share Share on TwitterTweet Share on Pinterest Share Share on LinkedIn Share Share on Digg Share