Graduation looked a little different in 2020, so Winkler's and Morden's high schools got creative.

Northlands Parkway Collegiate Principal Tammy MacDonald says they looked around the world for ways to make graduation special despite the many physical distancing protocols in place and adapted the Yard Card idea. Staff helped display placards on grads' properties and windows to highlight the 2020 class. Parents, grandparents and the community also took part in celebrating the students as the current health situation put traditional graduation events on hold.

"We just really appreciate what the community has done for us, the small local businesses that have supported our students with everything from fundraisers to scholarships," Garden Valley Collegiate Principal Carrie Friesen explains. "We just know that... our graduates mean a lot to this community."

MacDonald says it's been a trying year for their graduating class, the loss of a beloved teacher in Karen Giesbrecht, the COVID-19 situation, missing their friends, missing a traditional graduation.

"They're a resilient group of kids that's for sure."

Morden Collegiate staff also participated in a congratulatory event Monday which saw the preparation grad packages which included a lawn card, gown, cap and other items, and delivered them to students homes to celebrate the completion of their high school careers.

"This is our first day back at school together, and we're really happy to have an opportunity to have something fun we can do together, and something that celebrates the spirit of what the education system is all about, seeing our kids through to this important part and time of their lives," says Morden Collegiate Principal Marianne Fenn. "We're excited to be able to work together to present them with something that helps them feel celebratory at a time that may be a little bit tough for them."