(Fort McMurray, AB - May 30th, 2025) On May 22nd, the proud community of Wood Buffalo came together to honour and celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students at the annual Traditional Ceremony of Achievement (TCOA). Now in its 28th year, the ceremony has grown from its humble beginnings in 1998 with just 11 graduates to an integral tradition that honours the paths of dozens of Indigenous students each year. This year, 39 graduates from the Fort McMurray Public School Division were celebrated for their dedication, perseverance, and success.
The TCOA was far more than just a graduation ceremony; it was a vibrant celebration of identity, cultural pride, and personal achievement. With the support of the Athabasca Tribal Council, local school boards, corporate partners, and Métis Local 1935, the event became a powerful representation of the strength of community and the enduring importance of Indigenous traditions.
TCOA highlights the resilience and commitment of these young Indigenous leaders while fostering a sense of belonging and pride. Each of the graduates has paved the way for future generations, serving as an inspiration for their peers and communities. The ceremony serves as a reminder of the value of education and cultural connection, offering a moment to honour both the past and the future.
After the ceremony, Superintendent Annalee Nutter shared a heartfelt message for the graduates.
"Whatever comes next — more school, work, supporting your family, or learning in your own way — take that next step with confidence. And when the time feels right, come back. Share what you’ve learned with your community, with your younger siblings, cousins, and the ones who will walk this path after you. Your voice matters. Your story matters. And the future is brighter because of you.
Tth’á nı́da t’á síegha, Ɂeła náre nı́níye.
Pîsimw kîsikâw ê-wîcihitoyan, miyo-pimâtisiwin."
We are proud to honour the graduates who participated in the TCOA:
École McTavish High School
- Jayanna Dizak
- Emily Gillingham
- Lanna Giroux
- Anna Hiscock
- Cassidy Hiscock
- Cash Hornick
- Landon Lemay
- Jack Maher
- Sierra McCray
- Lachlan Merriagn
- Isaiah Power
- Branden Starr
- Liam Watson
Composite High School
- Cierrah Adby
- Addison Agecoutay-Hill
- K’i Applegarth
- Haynen Bighetty
- Brianna Christoffer
- Daniel Deranger
- Noah Fitzpatrick
- Amira Hiscock
- Landon Janvier
- Brooklyn Johnson
- Landon Patterson
Frank Spragins High School
- Brianna Hutton
- Dawson Lucas-Swyers
- Jessica Mecredi
- Cash Ross
Westwood Community High School
- Alex Agombar
- Maliesha Cooper
- Dominic Fosseneuve
- Jacob LeRoy
- Jackson Musseau
- Zander Skaronek
- Autumn Thunder-Chief
- Madison Whiteknife
- Tanisha Wigmore-Laviolette
- Logan Wiley
- Peyton Young
Congratulations to all the graduates for their incredible accomplishments.
View the Photo Gallery here.
For additional information, contact:
Momin Syed
Communications Coordinator
Fort McMurray Public School Division
780-788-8009
communications@fmpsd.ab.ca