A passing rain shower did little to dampen the excitement as Highland High School celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2026 during a commencement ceremony on June 25. Surrounded by family members, friends, faculty, and staff on the athletic field, 127 graduates proudly crossed the stage to receive their diplomas and mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

High School Principal Brandon Opitz welcomed guests and recognized members of the Board of Education, District administrators, faculty, and several longtime employees celebrating their retirements before addressing the graduates directly. He praised the Class of 2026 for the confidence and resilience they developed while overcoming challenges and encouraged them to continue setting ambitious goals, embracing new opportunities, and never allowing fear of failure to stand in the way of their dreams.

Before diplomas were presented, Opitz also recognized several notable accomplishments of the graduating class. Among them were Anastasios "Taso" Bakatsias earning the rank of Eagle Scout; 49 students completing Ulster BOCES Career and Technical Education programs, many while earning industry certifications; three graduates completing associate degrees through SUNY Ulster's dual enrollment program; and 36 students earning New York State's Seal of Civic Readiness.

Retiring Superintendent Joel Freer reflected on watching many members of the Class of 2026 grow from Kindergarten students into young adults over the past 13 years.

Salutatorian Abigail Paserba reflected on the memories, friendships, and everyday moments that shaped the class's journey through the Highland Central School District. Acknowledging that life rarely follows a perfect plan, she reminded her classmates that their years together had prepared them to adapt, persevere, and succeed wherever life may lead.

Valedictorian KaiLani Angiolillo thanked her family, teachers, and coaches for the encouragement they provided throughout her educational journey before delivering a heartfelt message about self-worth and believing in one's own value.

The ceremony also featured commencement speaker Dr. Daniel Whitley, a 2001 Highland High School graduate and assistant professor of surgery. Reflecting on his own journey from Highland to a career in medicine and humanitarian work, Whitley encouraged graduates to remain humble, continue learning, and recognize that meaningful accomplishments are rarely achieved alone.

Throughout the ceremony, speakers returned to a common theme: the strength of Highland's close-knit community and the lasting impact it has had on the graduates. They encouraged students to carry the lessons, relationships, and values they developed in their hometown with them as they pursue college, careers, military service, and other opportunities.

Following a performance by the Highland High School Band, the diplomas were presented to the graduates. As they turned their tassels and celebrated with family and friends, the Class of 2026 left Highland High School prepared to write the next chapter of their stories while carrying the pride and support of the Highland community with them.

Congratulations to the Highland High School Class of 2026! We wish each graduate continued success and happiness in all that lies ahead.