Check out the parade Antler River Elementary School held for its graduating class

There was a lot of cheering and car honking and a lot of big smiles during a graduation paradefor Grade 8 students at Antler River Elementary School.

Dozens of vehicles, covered with balloons, streamers and posters,gathered at the Chippewa Ball ParkThursday afternoon before making a jubilant procession towards the school, five kilometresaway.

"Today was an awesome day," said Vick Slay, the principal at Antler River. "We really wanted to show recognition for these kids. They worked really hard."

Sixteen students are graduating from the school this year. They were honoured duringa brief, physically-distanced ceremony in the parking lot.

"These are the leaders of tomorrow, these are the people that we need within our world and we're so proud of them," said Jenna Bruce, who teaches the eighth grade class.

Talon Doxtatoris heading to SaundersSecondary School in London in the fall, but he already has plans for college.

"Music. Music is probably the only thing that keeps me sane during these times," he explained. "I like all music, I like making music, I like writing music."

His parents, Miranda and Joseph, decoratedtheir truck with balloons and banners for the parade.

"We're just showing our appreciation for our son. He did a lot of hard work," said Joseph.

"It's pretty awesome to see him grow up and celebrate this way, in a parade," said Miranda.

Audrey "Billy"Wilson said there were three generations of her family in attendance. She was there with her daughter, Ryan Kechego,to support Kechego's daughter, Christina Riley.

"I'm hoping that she will spread her wings, I'm hoping that she has dreams, and I'm hoping that she fulfils those dreams," said Wilson.

The school is hopingto organize a more formal dinner celebration for the students later in the year, depending on COVID-19 restrictions.