To wrap up the 2018-19 school year, students were invited to attend one of two events—visiting an amusement park in Edmonton or Calgary. It was an opportunity to celebrate the hard work Vista Virtual School (VVS) students have put in this year.

Unfortunately, the visit to Callaway Park in Calgary was affected by the weather and had to be cancelled, but the visit to Galaxyland in Edmonton went ahead as planned.

“I think it’s important to have activities at the end of the year so that teachers and students can interact in a less formal setting,” said teacher and event supervisor Roxanne Schmidt. “It also acts as a celebration, as many of the students have completed or nearly completed their assignments for the year.”

Having an annual event like this also helps kick off the summer season—whether students are working on classes, or taking time to recharge.

“I’m looking forward to being done this year because I am graduating,” says Shanny M. “I am really looking forward to hanging out with my family this summer.”

For those who have never been to the venue, or travelled from other parts of the province, there was a buzz of eagerness before the park opened for the day.

“I’m excited for all the rides, as I have never been to Galaxyland,” says Naomi M.

Over 45 students, parents/guardians and friends attended West Edmonton Mall for an exciting day of rides and activities. A perfect way to end the traditional 10-month school year, and a great way to take a day and relax before starting the summer, summer school or other planned activities.

“I just finished grade 9…it was a different experience doing distance learning for the first year [time],” says Maya A. “We were abroad, so it kinda felt isolating sometimes, but it was nice to get support from the teachers and it gave me the flexibility to travel and have different experiences outside of school. This summer we are back in Canada to visit with family and catch up with old friends.”

All of this, as exams wind up for full-time and part-time students and those taking courses through the traditional school year. 

“I am very happy to end the year and to celebrate at Galaxyland. It has been such a long year and to finally end it off with a field trip is amazing,” says Shuib N. “Thank you to Vista Virtual [School] staff and everyone who makes this possible. It was a fun year!”

And it is important to take time to recharge after working hard on your courses.  

“I believe that it is important for us to offer many of the same benefits that a traditional brick and mortar school offers,” said VVS teacher and event supervisor, Tanya Cole. “That includes fun year-end activities!”

With many students continuing their learning over the summer too, Vista Virtual School is here to support all students year-round. 

“I really enjoyed meeting new students and their parents face-to-face,” said Cole. “It was great to see people away from the traditional school setting, especially at this busy and often stressful time of year as people try to finish up their courses. Instead of associating school with final exams, it was a chance to associate school with something totally fun!”

Check out more photos from the activity on our photo gallery page, or on Facebook or Twitter. 

“I really enjoyed seeing students and families I had in the past. I also was able to go on some rides with students I had this year as well as one that I will have next year,” said Schmidt. “I had a blast climbing all over the jungle gym, but the highlight of my day was the Sled ride which went much faster than I expected.”

Fun it definitely was, as thrills, screams and a whole lot of refreshment was had by everyone attending West Edmonton Mall on June 21.