The Union Springs Central School District proudly celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2026 on Thursday evening during its Commencement Ceremony. While deteriorating weather conditions forced the ceremony indoors to the high school gymnasium, the change in venue did nothing to dampen the excitement, pride, and emotion that filled the evening.

Principal Jason Dentel opened the ceremony by welcoming graduates, families, friends, faculty, and staff. He reflected on the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 and shared how proud the school community is of the graduates and all they have achieved throughout their time at Union Springs.

Anna McKay then led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance before the Singers of the Select Choir performed a beautiful rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner.

Superintendent Dr. Jarett Powers welcomed everyone and shared a meaningful gift with each graduate—a Scrabble tile holder containing a single word. He explained that, much like a game of Scrabble, every individual word contributes to something much larger. Each graduate represents a unique piece of the Class of 2026, with every student playing an important role in creating the complete picture of the class.

Class Salutatorian Asa Brown was the first student speaker of the evening. Brown encouraged his classmates to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead, reminding them that graduation marks the beginning of a new chapter. He reflected that class rank and Regents scores will soon become distant memories, and that each graduate now has the opportunity to define themselves through the choices they make moving forward.

Following Brown's remarks, the Singers of the Select Choir performed the Union Springs Alma Mater.

Class Valedictorian Ellen Crowley then took the stage to reflect on the memories that made Union Springs feel like home. She spoke about the friendships, experiences, and moments that shaped the Class of 2026, acknowledging the bittersweet reality that they may never all be together again. At the same time, she reminded her classmates that their families, teachers, and school community have prepared them well to take on whatever comes next.

The evening's keynote address was delivered by Union Springs alumnus Nathan McKay, Class of 2018. An attorney working in the video game industry, McKay shared a refreshingly honest perspective about his own high school experience, noting that he graduated 41st in his class and never defined himself by grades alone.

Drawing inspiration from one of his favorite video games, Destiny, McKay shared the quote, "Guardians make their own fate." He encouraged graduates to remember that their future will not be determined by a predetermined path or outside forces, but by the decisions they make and the effort they put forth. His message challenged the Class of 2026 to take ownership of their journey and confidently pursue their goals.

The ceremony continued with the presentation of diplomas, led by Dr. Powers and Board of Education President Dan Testa. They were joined by Principal Dentel, Class Advisor Joseph Palmiotto, and teacher Roberta Palmiotto in congratulating each graduate as they crossed the stage.

To conclude the evening, Dr. Powers officially presented the Union Springs Class of 2026. As thunderous applause echoed throughout the gymnasium, graduates joyfully tossed their caps into the air, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.

Congratulations to the Union Springs Class of 2026. Your future is yours to write, and the entire Wolves community cannot wait to see where your journey takes you!