Grad season is upon us, and yesterday (June 1) was Bert Church's turn to celebrate their senior class.

Prior to the ceremony, Principal Laurie Johnston took some time to sing the praises of the Class of 2017.

"We have such a diverse group of students, and they're just amazing, amazing citizens. They're performers, they're artists, they're athletes and they're academics and they're just the whole package and we're so happy."

Students Hayley Rowe, Toluwanimi Ojo and Madison Carefoot shared what grad means to them.

"It means a lot. I'm really excited to be with all these people," said Rowe, "I've grown up with most of them for almost all my life, so it's going to be really cool."

"It means to be leaving one step of the journey to go to the another step, and it's just a nice way to end the last journey," answered Ojo, "I think it's wonderful, I'm looking forward to what my life has in store."

"It's just a celebration of all our success in the past twelve years of school," said Carefoot.

For Chase Scott, the day brought on a mix of excitement and nervousness.

"I wasn't nervous coming up here, but as soon as I started putting the gown on and everything, the heart started pumping. But I'm excited and nervous."

After the graduates entered Genesis Place, they were addressed by Trustee Todd Brand on behalf of the Rocky View School Board, Deputy Mayor Fred Burley for the City of Airdrie, and Director of Airdrie Schools Ira Stroh on behalf of Rocky View Schools.

Principal Johnston encouraged the graduates to live life well, make good choices and not be afraid to take risks. Teacher Ian Ferguson was selected by the graduates as their guest speaker, and reminded them that following your dreams takes action. Valedictorian Cassandra Zucht reflected on the Chargers' years at the school, and looked towards their future.

As each graduate crossed the stage, they were given their certificate and also a given a yellow lily, a tradition started by Alexa Church, the wife of Bert Church.

Graduations continue this afternoon (June 2) when the graduating class from George McDougall crosses the stage.