Two Indigenous students receive provincial school board award

Two Lakeland area boys have received a provincial school board award.

Drayden Laviolette, Lac la Biche, and Taytum Quinney, Frog Lake, were both named recipients of the second annual Honouring Spirit: Indigenous Student Awards this week.

The award is given to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students who model strength and commitment in the pursuit of their personal educational paths.

Laviolette and Quinney were two of twelve award winners.

These exceptional students are nominated by members of their education communities, based on their exemplary leadership, courage, and commitment to their cultures and educational paths.

“I am in awe of the dedicated time and effort put in by each and every student who was nominated. The unique and truly special stories from the 12 recipients—and all nominees—from across Alberta serve as a powerful reminder to be involved in our communities and always strive to show courage and leadership,” said Lorrie Jess, President, Alberta School Boards Association.

The Honourable Lois E. Mitchell, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, the Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA), presented the second annual Honouring Spirit: Indigenous Student Awards at Government House, with the Honourable Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Education, and the Honourable Rick Wilson, Minister of Indigenous Relations in attendance.

“These amazing young people are proudly celebrating their cultures and sharing the best of who they are. Through their great energy, strength, determination and understanding, they are lighting a path for fellow students to follow and reminding us all of the power we each hold to inspire and encourage those around us,” said Her Honourable Lois E. Mitchell, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta.