Congratulations, Class of 2026!

More than 150 graduates and their families gathered in the natural bowl in the center of the Edgemont Jr./Sr. High School’s campus, for a festive al fresco celebration. More than 50 flags representing the cultures of the Edgemont community rimmed the gathering while faculty members in academic regalia, the music of the Edgemont Band, and a performance by the Edgemont Chamber Choir created an atmosphere filled with pride, anticipation, and gratitude.

As setting sun’s long rays set the graduates’ faces aglow, select classmates and educators shaped memories and hopes into sendoffs that unified the celebration in laughter, reflection and sweetness.

Senior Leah Chan opened the ceremony by recalling a memory from sixth grade during the COVID-19 pandemic, when classmates gathered outdoors simply to spend time together. "Often, it was freezing, damp, and miserable outside," she said, "but we were never miserable because we were together."

Principal Kyle Hosier encouraged graduates to build lives grounded in relationships, purpose, and self-belief. "Have faith in yourself and in your future," he said. "Allow your family to share in your success and disappointment. Make friendships a priority. And engage in meaningful work that gives you purpose and that helps others."

Superintendent Kenneth R. Hamilton expressed his confidence in the Class of 2026 and the impact its members will have on the world. "Someone on this stage can cure cancer, tackle issues that threaten world peace and social justice, reform health care, and literally save the planet," he said.

Board of Education President Grace Lin challenged graduates to recognize the strengths that come naturally to them—whether as organizers, supporters, creators, advocates, or mentors. "Align your 24 hours to those things," she said, "and you'll love what you find."

Faculty speaker Daniel Schuchat shared a story from his teenage years, when he lost his way while performing in a professional opera. Reflecting on the experience, he told graduates, "I hope you have someone to gently guide you when you lose your way."

Class speaker Jackson Thomas described high school as "a controlled experiment." Gesturing toward the faculty seated in the front row, he joked, "They built us a practice planet. I've discovered your plans to show us that failure only gives us the chance to grow."

Fellow class speaker Maya Barmecha encouraged her classmates to welcome the unexpected. "I hope we leave room for surprise, for detours, for unexpected friendships, and for opportunities that don't fit into a five-year plan," she said. "Because if our time here has taught us anything, it's that some of life's most meaningful moments are the ones we least expect."

One by one, members of the Class of 2026 crossed the stage to receive their diplomas from Superintendent Hamilton and Principal Hosier.

“Congratulations, Class of 2026,” said Superintendent Hamilton. “Go forward with courage, humility, and purpose. The world is waiting for what only you can contribute.”

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