Northlands Parkway Collegiate saw students turn the tassel Tuesday morning.

Valedictorian Michelle Baier says she's seen her class grow closer together through joy and tragedy. Baier says the passing of teacher Erich Hirschfeld especially had an impact during their grade eight year.

"We became strong as a group," she says.

Projects like the high school musical, 'Les Miz', not only brought the drama and choir students together but the entire school. Props were created by art and RRTVA students and costumes were sewn and created by students.

"Literally the entire school came together," Baier says. "And we presented the musical not just for ourselves, but to do something good for the community."

Looking back on their high school experience, Baier says they were fortunate to have a strong team of teachers that took a personal interest in their lives. "Some teachers like Mrs. Friesen just jump in... when a student forgot their curling shoes during a tournament in Morden she drove back just for their shoes."

Others took time after class to explain especially difficult math or physics problems, "teachers going above and beyond to help us out."

Looking ahead, Baier hopes to attend post-secondary education and enter the pharmacy program.

"I believe a pharmacist is someone who plays a huge role in the community, and that's my dream... to be involved in the community and make positive changes."