‘The future is ours’
Staff Report
A lively crowd in Newkirk’s High School gymnasium greeted the graduating class of 2026 as they entered for Friday night’s graduation ceremony.
After opening prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, the senior class commenced with the presentation of flowers to their parents.
The senior class is made up of 33 students.
The five valedictorians were then presented. There were no salutatorians this year. Jordyn Carelton was the first to take to the stage. She spoke of how high school was only a small part of her class’ experience and was but a starting point in their lives. She said her class should dream big and never settle.
“The future is ours,” she concluded. “Now let’s go chase it.”
Brinley Deibler then took to the stage. She spoke of the long journey for her class to get to this date and how things were about to come to an end and change. She thanked her teachers and parents for their hard work and patience over the years, as well as her friends for being such an important part of her journey.
Deibler also spoke of how her faith is providing her strength and support on her educational journey.
It was then Lilly Free’s turn to address the crowd. Her remarks were brief, but she spoke of her strong support system in school that kept her smiling along her journey.
Brooklynne Reyes was next, sharing about the passage of time and wishing for one more recess or nap time. She spoke of how time has seemingly passed in the blink of an eye. Time builds memories, she said, and graduation just built one more.
Claire Scheiber was the final valedictorian to speak. She began by mentioning her the strong support of parents.
“The future is in our hands,” she said. “It is full of opportunities and possibilities. Go and be great, and make a difference. I wish you nothing but the best.”
Principal Lance Williams then presented to Superintendent Todd Overstreet the Class of 2026.
Claire Schieber came on stage to tell the class to turn their tassel to the other side, and they were declared alumni of Newkirk High School.‘The future is ours’
