Rick Hansen Secondary Hosts Inspiring Celebration of Learning
On January 16, 2025, Rick Hansen Secondary School (RHSS) buzzed with energy as students, staff, families, and community members gathered for the highly anticipated Annual Celebration of Learning. The evening unfolded with a vibrant blend of creativity, innovation, and heartfelt reflection.
The event featured the unveiling of Motherland – Mother Hand, a powerful mural created by artist Sandeep Johal and now on long-term loan to the school from The Reach Gallery Museum. The mural—a collaborative effort involving six South Asian Canadian women from Abbotsford—explores themes of heritage, resilience, and community. Johal, along with representatives from The Reach, shared the story behind the mural’s creation. One of the mural’s contributors, Kanta Naik, expressed her pride, saying, “It’s so inspiring to see the kids and what they want to do next. They are so confident. It’s so great.”
Grade 12 students took center stage to present their Capstone projects—a cornerstone of RHSS’s inquiry-based learning approach. The projects, driven by the students’ passions and guided by their teachers, were presented in interactive formats that allowed for one-on-one engagement, small-group discussions, and formal mainstage talks.
Avntika Biohnoi opened the student presentations with a poignant poetry reading, setting a thoughtful and reflective tone for the night. Alysha Gauba, who has been accepted into UBC, captivated the audience with her presentation on heart disease prevention and education. An active member of multiple clubs and sports teams, Gauba shared that her favorite high school experiences have been shaped by the support and camaraderie of her friends and teachers.
Hersimer Dhaliwal, a Loran Scholar semi-finalist, moved the audience with her account of creating high-quality care packages for SARA for Women. What began as a goal to assemble 50 packages grew into a larger initiative involving local businesses and $500 in fundraising. Her heartfelt project, inspired by her background and a desire to make lasting change, has set the foundation for future students to continue her work.
Other students also showcased remarkable achievements. Shaganpreet Sidhu has built a successful media business helping local companies manage TikTok accounts. Ania Bhatti runs a thriving lash business and plans to pursue a career in healthcare. Harleen Dhaliwal, a volunteer at Tabor Home Society, learned to crochet from senior residents and worked with them to donate handmade baby hats to Abbotsford Hospital.
Throughout the evening, the talents of RHSS students filled the air. Live music performances added warmth and atmosphere, while culinary students delighted guests with an array of delicious snacks. A spirited Bhangra performance by the Rangla Punjab Arts Academy (Junior Girls) brought exuberant rhythm and dance to the celebration.
The event drew distinguished guests from the Abbotsford School District, including Trustee Stan Peterson, Superintendent Sean Nosek, Deputy Superintendent Nathan Ngieng, and Assistant Superintendents Jay Pankratz and Bruce Cunnings. Principal Jaimie Webster, Vice Principals Michael Hendricks and Brent Schroeder, and Director of Curriculum Tracy Krys beamed with pride as they celebrated the accomplishments of these students.
Rick Hansen Secondary’s Celebration of Learning was a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of inquiry-based learning. By fostering curiosity, mentorship, and student-driven exploration, the school continues to shape confident, engaged graduates ready to create a brighter future.
Photo album: https://bit.ly/rhss-col-album