Class Of 2022 Graduation Information

TRIO Wolf Creek Distance Learning Charter School shared in celebrating the success of their seniors at their 20th commencement ceremony. Commencement was held for the class of 2022 on Friday, June 10th, at the Chisago Lakes Performing Arts Center (PAC). The Class of 2022 consisted of 67 graduating seniors. The Performing Arts Center was filled with the graduate’s families and friends to witness a milestone in their education. “We know that the times we have experienced over the past two years are not what we all expected. These students have shown resilience, perseverance, and determination” said Tracy Quarnstrom, co-founder and director of Wolf Creek. “We want to acknowledge first and foremost that we are so proud of you!” she finished.

The Chisago Lakes American Legion Post #272 Color Guard presented the flags during the “Star-Spangled Banner,” which was played by Wolf Creek staff member CJ Hanson. Quarnstrom welcomed and thanked everyone present who helped make this moment possible for each student. Below are a few excerpts from the commencement address by Quarnstrom.

Let’s talk about the word commencement. Commencement means a beginning or start. This is your graduation, your commencement, your start of life beyond high school. We are so excited for you. Today is your day! Today is the start of something special. The future is waiting for you! With the resilience, you have already shown we know you will do great things to make our world a better place.

If there is something the times we are living in have taught us, it is that family, friends, supporters, and connections are important to all of us. I encourage you to write a note, text, or message to anyone who needs to hear your appreciation today.

We applaud you for being an online learning student before online learning was cool. You knew what school would look like even when other elements of traditional school and our society fell away. You continued your studies in a virtual environment and you received a high-quality education here at Wolf Creek, for that you should be very proud.

What we believe about the Wolf Creek Class of 2022

• We believe that you have learned about resilience in ways no other senior class has in our history

• We believe that you are better poised to enter the digital world than most high school students

• We believe that you will value connections in new ways

• We believe that you are capable of accomplishing anything you set your mind to

Graduate Mackenzie Hansen delivered her speech on “Our Path to Graduation” where she spoke about her journey to Wolf Creek and how she found support and success at Wolf Creek after struggling with distance learning during the pandemic. “The teachers at Wolf Creek are truly amazing people. It makes a difference when you have a great group of teachers and people who care and want the best for your future”, she noted.

Two beautiful performances of “I’m Not Gonna Cry” by Corey Smith, sung by Wolf Creek staff member Randi Stream and “We’ll Meet Again” by Vera Lynn, sung by Wolf Creek graduate Andrew Favilla-Lehmann and accompanied by staff member CJ Hanson. Two students with high honors were awarded scholarships. Cordero Smith received the CL Lions scholarship and Kylee Vobr received the Wolf Creek Alumni scholarship.

Graduates adorned in their caps, gowns, honor cords, and traditional regalia were congratulated, celebrated, and awarded their Wolf Creek Online diplomas by Jeff Vitali, School Board Chair, Tracy Quarnstrom, Wolf Creek Director, and Brenda Swanson, Dean of Students. Wolf Creek staff were next in line to congratulate each graduate they had championed throughout their high school years. Families and friends were happy to witness each student's success and join in the celebration. This was the year for an abundant celebration! Many students decorated their hats beautifully to celebrate their achievements. Families congratulated their graduate with arms full of flowers, balloons, and gifts. It was a wonderful night filled with celebration and congratulations!

The Wolf Creek staff and school board would like to congratulate the Wolf Creek Online Class of 2022 and wish all the graduates much success in their future endeavors and a lifetime of learning and happiness.