Sidney’s downtown streets were filled with joy on Tuesday, June 24, as the community celebrated the graduating class of 2025 from Parkland Secondary School. The first-ever Grad Walk turned Beacon Avenue into a lively parade route, giving graduates a special moment before their official ceremonies at the University of Victoria later in the day.
Hundreds of residents lined the sidewalks, waving and cheering as students dressed in gowns and suits proudly walked through the heart of Sidney. Young students from Sidney Elementary School held handmade “congratulations” signs, adding excitement and energy to the event.
Kindergarten teacher Carla Coppock explained the importance of seeing the graduates’ growth. She said it was a moment to reflect on how far the students had come since starting school. “They were once little four-year-olds in our room, and now they’re almost adults. It’s wonderful to see them shine,” Coppock said.
Teachers prepared 170 elementary students to cheer on the graduates. Jennifer Alberring, a Grade 4 and 5 teacher, shared the idea behind the event. “We thought it would be great if the Sidney Bees could cheer on the Parkland Panthers,” she said. Despite a busy school schedule, seven classes joined in to support the parade. “We’re very busy, but this felt like a perfect way to start a new tradition,” Alberring added.
The parade was organized by Kristi Johnson, mother of graduate Jesse Johnson, who spent three months planning the event. She praised the support from local authorities, saying, “It’s special to have the community come out, see the grads in their gowns and suits, and congratulate them.” Johnson hopes Grad Walk will become an annual Sidney tradition.
At 11 a.m., the parade began with a vintage Ford Mustang leading the procession. Graduates walked side-by-side, waving to families and friends who captured the moment at Beacon Park. The waterfront setting provided a memorable backdrop for photos and celebrations.
Montgomery Ogis, one of the graduates, shared mixed emotions about the day. “I’m happy and a little sad that we’re graduating,” he said. His mother, Rachel Bevington, expressed pride in her son’s achievements. “It’s very satisfying to see him walk with his graduating class,” she said.
The parade highlighted Sidney’s strong sense of community. Many residents, seated in lawn chairs along the route, cheered enthusiastically as the students passed. Valedictorians Hugh Devey and Christian Musicco stood at Beacon Park, visibly grateful for the support. “Community is a huge part of who we are at Parkland,” they said.
Devey expressed surprise at the turnout. “It’s surreal. I didn’t realize how many people would come out. It makes me feel proud,” he said. Musicco agreed, noting, “It was amazing to be part of this event and feel the community around us.”
Both valedictorians were touched by the presence of Sidney Elementary students. “It’s a full-circle moment, seeing our old teachers cheering for us,” Devey reflected.
Before heading to the University of Victoria for their valedictory speeches, the graduates shared hugs, took photos, and celebrated their achievements with family and friends. The event showed that Sidney deeply values its youth, giving the Class of 2025 a memorable send-off as they start the next chapter of their lives.
