Cornwall Alternative School celebrates first graduation in 53 years

Cornwall Alternative School has marked a major milestone by celebrating its first graduating class in 53 years. The school supports students facing significant challenges, such as behavioural issues, addiction, trauma, and mental health struggles. This achievement highlights its long-standing commitment to education in difficult circumstances. The school serves a student body where 90 per cent come from First Nations, Métis, and Inuit backgrounds. Its curriculum emphasises Indigenous education, which has played a key role in the students’ success. The graduation ceremony recognised both their academic accomplishments and the broader impact of this approach.

Angelina Peigan, one of the graduates, plans to pursue a career in nursing. Principal Andrew Irwin-Pasloski described the event as a source of hope for students. He also stressed the school’s ongoing focus on improving graduation rates for Indigenous learners. This graduation represents a historic moment for Cornwall Alternative School. It demonstrates the success of tailored support for students with complex needs. The school now aims to build on this progress in the years ahead.