The Class of 2026 marked the completion of high school and their public school education with a graduation ceremony filled with celebration, pride and anticipation for what comes next for them beyond Minisink Valley.

A feeling of accomplishment and excitement filled the football field stands as graduates took their places for the ceremony on early summer and sunny Friday evening. Families and friends packed the stands and surrounded the field, thrilled to watch the students in their lives receiving their diplomas. With smiles, cheers, and the traditional tossing of caps into the sky, the evening marked the start of countless new possibilities.

In her remarks, Senior Class President Sylvia Gleblocki reminded everyone a new balance will now be needed in their lives.

“Of course, transitioning into the real world isn't that simple and there will be plenty of rocks in the road,” she said. “But use the motivation of your new routine and embrace your independence to keep pushing forward. All the changes in your life will eventually direct you toward where you're supposed to go.”

Valedictorian Connor Doane reminded his peers that everyone, in his or her own way, is now standing perched on a precipice.

“Of the multitude of places we are individually bound, no two of them are identical,” he said. “Whether you are to be an officer in our armed forces, a founder of a construction enterprise, or a bank clerk, your aspiration is just as intricate and honorable as any other in this great sea of youthful potential. However, I ask you, and only answer in your mind: Do you know how you’ll get there? No, you don’t. All that any of us has to go on at this moment is that magnificent peak in the distance; there is no map, and the clouds are impenetrable.”

He added: “There is not a soul, alive or dead, who has charted your course, so do not let them, even in the best of intentions, convince you they know exactly what is best for you. You are the only one who holds the compass; do not forget that, as we, in synchrony, descend from the mountaintop in search of the next great vista.”

Salutatorian and licensed pilot Colin Hansen sprinkled aviation language in his remarks.

“What airplanes have taught me about life that is truly the most captivating and something that I believe you, the Class of 2026, will find valuable throughout any journey you take off on in life,” he said. “Unlike cars, where you’re limited to the ground, and unlike boats, where you’re limited to the water, airplanes can fit into each one of these niches. Whether it be a seaplane, a commercial airliner, or a fighter jet, they all excel at their main quality: Soaring through the air. Regardless of what niche you land on in life, make sure you can still soar, projecting your uniqueness, who you really are.”

He also reminded his peers: “As we complete our departure and begin our climb into the next chapter of our lives, I wish you all fair weather; however, remember to expect the unexpected —prepare for any turbulence; buckle your seatbelt and keep your seatback upright because time flies."In his comments, Principal Kenneth Hauck reaffirmed that graduation marks a monumental transition.

“As I look out at all of you, I do not just see students in caps and gowns,” he said. “I see a profound collection of unique stories, defined by three distinct chapters: Your struggles, your successes and your preparedness for the future.”

Principal Hauck acknowledged that graduates will be regularly asked if they are ready for what lies ahead of them.

“Being prepared does not mean you have every single detail of your life mapped out,” he added. “True preparedness means having the mindset to handle whatever comes next. Because you have already managed both defeat and victory, you possess the tools required for the world outside these walls. You are ready to think critically, adapt quickly and act compassionately. You are fully prepared. Go out and make us proud.”

Superintendent Brian Monahan used the work ethic, tenacity and grit of the 2026 NBA Champion New York Knicks and Jalen Brunson, their captain, to reaffirm the critical importance of working hard and never giving in or giving up.

“Work ethic is what carries you through difficult times,” he said. “Work ethic is what gets you through the days when motivation disappears. Work ethic is what separates people who dream from people who achieve. There’s a direct relationship between what you achieve and the effort you invest.”

He asked them to remember this: “Lead when others follow. Work when others quit. Believe when others doubt. And above all, never allow anyone to outwork you. Because your future will not be determined by circumstances. Yes, it’s true good luck matters. But your future won’t always be determined by luck. It will be determined by your character, your perseverance, your resilience and your willingness to continue moving forward when life becomes difficult. The future belongs to those who are willing to work for it. Remember, good luck always favors those who are prepared.”

See the five photo galleries posted on the district's Facebook page.