Speech Day 2024

By Saoirse M. (’28)

As we gather on this special day, we celebrate the culmination of another exceptional year at QMS. Our entire student body, from every grade level, comes together to honor our graduates, award winners, and talented musicians. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our parents, staff, and students for their collective efforts in creating a sense of joy and appreciation that fills our school. We take pride in acknowledging and celebrating every award winner and student’s achievement, knowing that each one is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion that define our community.

Speech Day 2024 was a momentous occasion that will be etched in our memories forever. The morning was filled with sweet treats, harmonious melodies, and a showcase of talent that left everyone in awe. The ice cream threats from Mr. Robertson added a touch of whimsy to the morning, while the breathtaking displays of music by our talented band and choir brought the audience to their feet. We extend our deepest gratitude to our exceptional music teams for their outstanding performances, as well as to all those who contributed to making this event a memorable one for everyone involved.

But amidst the celebration, we are also reminded of the bittersweet nature of this occasion. We celebrate the achievements of our students and staff while also remembering the absence of one of our own. The hard work and dedication of our community shone through in the many awards, heartfelt speeches, and musical performances that filled the hall. It was Cole McPherson’s Award (’24) that brought tears and the memory of a life lost too soon. This award is a poignant reminder of the love and respect we had for Cole, a wonderful person who left an unforgettable mark on our school community. We miss him dearly, but we take comfort in knowing that his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched and the lessons he taught us about resilience, kindness, and being yourself.

As we also bid farewell to Mrs. O’Mara Armstrong, who received a well-deserved standing ovation for her dedicated service to our school community, we are filled with gratitude for her unwavering kindness, patience, and generosity. Her dedication to our students’ education and well-being has left an indelible mark on each of us, and we will miss her presence in our halls. We take comfort in knowing that her legacy will continue to inspire and guide us as we move forward, and we wish her all the best as she embarks on her next journey.

As we close this chapter in our school’s story, we are reminded that it is not just the accomplishments that define us but also the people who have made an impact on our lives. We honour their memories by cherishing every moment with those around us and by recognizing the lessons they taught us about perseverance, compassion, and kindness. Today, we celebrate not only our achievements but also the bonds we formed along the way. We are proud of who we are as a community, and we look forward to continuing to build on the foundation laid by those who have come before us.

(Photo by Ashley Marston Photography)