Friday's graduation at the Portage Learning and Learning Centre saw many tears, shouts of joy and smiles of satisfaction as both young and older students received their Grade 12 graduation diplomas.

Timothy Peters and his wife Janine Fagnan both graduated with their Grade 12 diplomas at the the graduation ceremony at Canad Inns at the same time. So the day was particularly memorable for the couple.

"That's what makes it more special," said Peters. "I feel wonderful. I finally got to get my grade 12. It's an amazing feeling."

Fagnan said when Peters was taking the program she used to encourage him along the way, then she decided she might as well go back to school to get her Grade 12 diploma also.

He has been there for three years and I just came last year," said Fagnan. "At first I was helping him through his Grade 12. Then, I figured if I'm helping him I want to get my Grade 12. So we'll get it together in the last year."

Peters also received an award for Strength of Character.

"I went through a lot of obstacles in my life, and just conquering them felt really good," he said.

A total of 25 students received their diplomas at the ceremony.

Caroline Cannon, PLLC Education Director, was excited to see the many new graduates pick up their diplomas.

"I think the afternoon went really well, better than expected," she said. "I think the graduates are very excited, and the families. You can just hear the buzz in the air."`

See more in Portage Daily Graphic.

angela.brown@sunmedia.ca