On June 14, more than 200 graduates from three local high schools participated in the Walk with Excellence parade celebrating academic success, thirst for learning and inclusive access to postsecondary education.
With principals, teachers and community members cheering them on, graduates from C. W. Jeffreys Collegiate Institute, Westview Centennial Secondary and Downsview Secondary School walked along Sentinel Road to a reception in York University’s TEL Building.
This student achievement celebration was a demonstration of York’s partnership with the community and schools, and 
served as a warm welcome to high school graduates from the nearby Toronto’s Jane/Finch neighbourhood. It was also an opportunity to provide graduating students an experience with the University environment.
Students mingle at York University following their march
The youth marched wearing T-shirts emblazoned with “We’re In The Know”, the title of a poem by George Elliott Clarke, City of Toronto’s Poet Laureate 2013, and sporting commemorative Walk with Excellence medallions.
They not only had an opportunity to experience York University and its campus, but also had the chance to commemorate their successful high school journeys within a University setting that champions post-secondary pathways.
The Walk with Excellence event was collaboratively organized by Educational Attainment West, Success Beyond Limits, Toronto District School Board, CUPE, Pattie Palace, Festival Management Committee, PEACH and the York Centre for Education & Community.