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GRADUATION
Elgin High School Class of 2026 graduation speakers May 22 touched on the resilience of their peers, a community of young learners prepared to enter the next chapter of their lives.
Elgin Independent School district leaders once again saw the Shoreline Church floor in Austin fill with students during this year’s commencement ceremony, backed by a sea of proud parents. Before receiving their diplomas, graduating seniors reflected on the challenges they say shaped their experience as Wildcats and those who helped overcome them.
“None of us reached this stage alone,” class salutatorian Cassie Rice said. “Teachers helped us with tutoring lessons, staff members ensured that we were safe at school and family members encouraged us to continue our education.”
Rice stressed the importance of support systems, thanking her family members individually. She urged her peers to pursue their goals despite any obstacles that may stand in their way.
“The road will be hard and full of unexpected challenges,” she said. “But the ability for you to create these changes depends on you.”
Rice earned an associate degree through dual- credit coursework while serving as student council president and participating in theater, color guard and Girl Scouts. She plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin in the fall, alongside valedictorian Valerie Bradford.
In her speech, Bradford focused on individuality and self-acceptance, warning classmates not to compare themselves to others.
“You don’t have to be like anyone else,” Bradford said. “Being you should be good enough for you and everyone around you.”
Bradford, who also earned an associate degree while in high school, served as student council secretary for three years and competed as a state finalist in winter guard for two consecutive years.
With eyes on the future, after reflecting on her high school career, Bradford said every person contributes unique strengths to society.
“We need teachers and chefs, we need doctors and firefighters,” she said. “Everyone brings a different set of skills to the table. They allow us to support each other and learn from other people.”
These sentiments were echoed by district faculty, many emotional despite having gone through the scene several times before.
“We gather not only to celebrate diplomas and accomplishments, but to honor a truth you have lived,” Principal Armetrius Staples said. “We are stronger together.”
Officials again gave recognition to the role families, teachers and community members played in helping students reach the stage that night.
“See the faces of those who cheered for you, who corrected your drafts, who drove you to practice, sat through your performances and games,” Staples said. “Their presence is part of your achievement here tonight.”
The ceremony concluded with the loud cheers and inevitable tears of loved ones, as Staples reminded graduates the values they gained during their time at Elgin High will continue to shape their futures.
“Lead with courage, serve with humility and love with intention,” she said. “Class of 2026, we made it here together.”
