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Their time of 10 minutes 54.47 seconds was set their eighth grade year in 2024. Three of those four team of that relay team were on the ACS championship winning 4x8 last Friday. So that's going to be a tough record to break if anybody is going to get that. >> 100 meter hurdles. >> There are the times for today's relay squads and each individual will be running two laps >> and doing more of a shuffle exchange here. I know Elliot, you've run some 800s, right? So, how how does it how does it feel in an 800? Like where and I guess where does it kind of rank in regards to all the different track events? >> I honestly feel like everybody says their track event is the hardest track event, but for me, the 800 has been the most difficult because it's not the flatout sprint that any of the shorter distances are, and it's not the long slog of the one mile or two mile.
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How we handle each situation is our choice. We choose how our legacy is shaped. We choose the person we become. It won't always be easy. With every decision we make, there will be haters and supporters. But in our world full of loud opinions, the voice that matters the most is our own. And in life, it's all about whose voice you choose to listen to. Now, I could stand up here and keep giving my TED talk, but as we already established, nobody cares. So, thank you so much, class of 2026, and let's freaking graduate. [applause] >> [applause] >> Thank you, Addison. Graduates, families, friends, faculty, and staff. As your principal, it is truly an honor to stand before you today and share a few words on this special occasion. Today marks the end of one chapter, but more importantly, it celebrates the experiences, memories, accomplishments, and perseverance of an outstanding graduating class.
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will the class of 2026 please rise. [cheering] >> [cheering] [cheering] >> Thank you. >> [cheering] >> You may now move your tassel as a sign of your graduation. [cheering] Ladies and gentlemen, please remain seated for the recessional of the Belleville West class of 2026. Thank you for joining us today. >> [cheering] >> Single hand. Hallelujah. Heat. Heat. Hallelujah. [music] Hallelujah. Heat. Heat. Wat. Hey. Hey. Hallelujah. Oh, hey. Heat. Heat. Thank you. >> [music] >> Heat. Heat. Hallelujah. Glory. How are you? Come on. All right. [cheering] [cheering] Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to the commencement of the class of 2026. [cheering] I am Dr. Malcolm Hill and it's my privilege to serve as the principal of Belleville West High School. We respectfully ask that you stand at this time for the national anthem performed by the Belleville West Band under the direction of Mr. Michael Pine Jones.
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It's much more strategic in that you have to go fast the first 200 and then maintain that pace and then kick at the end. >> Yeah. I think a lot of people say how the 400 is one of the toughest events, but I just feel like the eight if you run it the right way or the wrong way if you will. >> It's I mean it's just backto-back fours and like a lot of like in the higher levels like it's not really a run. It is more so an 800 meter dash and it's just it is grueling. It is not for the faint of heart. It is. That is definitely accurate. It's why I'm a spinner. >> Oh, thank you. You're the best one. You're the best. Thank you very much. >> So, it does look like Bluffton has a mix of seventh and eighth graders.
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Class of 2026, as you prepare to begin the next phase of your journey, you will face opportunities, challenges, and decisions that will shape your future for years to come. Before you step into the real world, I would like to leave you with four simple but important pieces of advice. First, always do what is right. In today's world, doing the right thing is not always the easiest choice. The right path is often the harder path, but it is built on character, integrity, honesty, and principle. Your values will define who you are long after your accomplishments are forgotten. Second, always be courageous. Do not be afraid to take chances, try new things, or step outside of your comfort zone. The world will sometimes tell you that you're not capable, not qualified, or not good enough. Never let those voices define you. Instead, be the person who rises to the challenge and proves them wrong.
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Gentlemen, please remove your caps. >> [music] [music] >> You may be seated. [crying] I would like to begin by introducing the individuals gathered up here on stage to preside over this ceremony. Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Marshon Warren. >> [applause] >> from the Belleville School District Board of Education, Miss Mrs. Nikki Brown. Our associate principal, Dr. Richard Bass, assistant principal, Mr. Brent Whipple, Director of Student Services, Mrs. Gloria Perry, assistant principal. Mr. Jason Carson, director of curriculum, Dr. Son Arsani. At this time, I would like to recognize our seniors class of 2026 for your hard work. You have done everything that I've asked you this year. You all have been tremendous role model for our younger students here at Belleville West. Would you all please give them a round of applause [cheering] [applause] and as you know seniors, it has been a long journey. You could not have got this done without the support of your family, your parents, guardians, and your support staff.
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I don't not familiar with most of the other junior high runners, but it looks like Bluffton's going Sophia Robels, Naomi Fry, Willow Todd, and Aaron Ramsier. So Ramseier and Fry being younger sisters of the two Grace and Abby who were the part of the record holding relay teams. But I do know when I was up here during the try meet with or maybe it was just a duel with Heritage, they had quite the strong 4x8. Uh so it' be interesting to see where things go. Heritage is the favorite with an 1130. I know Bluffton doesn't have a seed time in here, but they were right on the heels of the heritage team, but it was uh I believe that was Emmy Dmer. I wonder if there's I'm sure there's a relation to uh Tinley uh somewhere down the line, but it'll be interesting to see how this race can shape out and they'll get things started and it will be a gradual like they will break here around 120 mters.
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Third, always be kind. Kindness is something our world needs more than ever. Do not carry anger or bitterness or negativity with you. Be the kind of person others want to be around. Treat people with compassion and respect because one day you may find yourself hoping that some kindness in return. And finally, be yourself. Never change who you are to fit someone else's expectations. Believe in yourself, trust yourself, and recognize everything you have accomplished already. Each one of you has a unique talent and incredible potential, and you are wonderful exactly the way you are. As you move forward after today, remember these four things. Do what's right. Be courageous. Be kind. Be yourself. And if you ever question why those things matter, the answer is simple. Because we are Belleville East. [applause] It is now the point in the ceremony that everybody's waiting for. [cheering] [applause] It is now my duty and privilege to certify that the Belleville East class of 2026 has met the graduation requirements of the state of Illinois and the District 2011 Board of Education.
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At this time, please give them a round of applause. At this time, [cheering] [applause] at this time, I'd like to call our superintendent of schools, Dr. Marshon Warren. [clears throat] Good afternoon. It is a privilege to stand before you today as we celebrate the graduating class of 2026. Graduates, you are stepping into a world filled with possibility, purpose, and opportunity. Your high school experience has prepared you not only academically, but personally, building your resilience, character, and vision for the future. Whether your next step is military service, college, or entering the workforce, each path is valuable because each of you are valuable. Our society depends on the contributions of people from every walk of life. And the world needs your voice, your passion, and your willingness to make a difference. As you move forward, remember to be grateful for the parents, guardians, teachers, and loved ones who supported you along the way.
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and being able to collapse into lane one. >> Did we get you in any 4x8s this year, Elliot? >> I don't think I ran a 4x8 this year. No, >> I am glad though that I did not >> got you into a 4x4 and I think you told me afterwards like I don't know about that. >> Yeah, let's just stick the ball this year. Yes. >> J me on the other hand, you were you were quite the trooper in the 4x4. I was I had ran I had run it like the first half of the season. >> Yeah. >> No one else would run it. >> Yeah. Maybe next year I'll get you in a 4x8. How about that? No. No. Okay. So, it does look like that Heritage Squad is out in front. Southern Wells on their heels. I know Southern Wells has quite a crew around them as well.
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I now ask Mrs. Sheree Bennett, district 2011 school board member to come forward. [applause] >> Congratulations to the class of 2026. Mr. Ruititz, please read the role. [applause] Mr. Jones, please come forward. Hadley Herd, [cheering] Miles Miller, [applause] Sam Hockey, Morgan Habley, >> [cheering] >> Dante Haristen, >> Aiden Hall, [cheering] >> David Hall, Jason Halton Jr. [cheering] Logan Hamilton, [cheering] >> you Randy Hammock, >> Jasmine Hanks, Jashawn Hardy, >> [cheering] >> Jerry Harmon, >> Deshawn Harold, Michael Harrell, Alonis Harris, >> Jameson Harris, Jaden Harris, >> Kelton Harris, [cheering] Kevin Harris, [applause] [cheering] Cullen Hman, [applause] Callie Hayward, Camden Hearn, Colton Hearn, Aubrey Hines, Lauren Hellfrick, Connor Henderson, Haley Hernandez, Mahia, Chloe Hickham, Emily Hickman, [cheering] Charvan Hill, Dearan Hill, Vantre Hill, Aaliyah Hines, Elise Henriks, Emily Henriks, Brooke Highs, [applause] Dianis Hodgeges, >> Jerome Hodgeges, >> [cheering] >> Tmaine Holiday, Coriel Hoffman, Darien Hollinssworth, David Holloway II, [applause] Kaden Holloway Williams, >> Quali Holmes, >> Joshua Holman, [cheering] >> Autumn Horn, Abigail House, [cheering] >> Kai Howlet, [applause] Keelen Hughes, >> Kenya Humphre, >> Mai Humphre, Elena Hunt, [cheering] >> Ryan Hunt Jr.
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Their encouragement helped build the foundation for your success. Most importantly, believe in yourself and your ability to achieve your goals. Success is never accomplished alone. So, build relationships, seek mentors, and collaborate with others. As you walk through new doors of opportunity, remember to hold those doors open for the people who will follow behind you. Class of 2026, you are gifted, prepared, and deeply needed. Congratulations and best wishes on your journey ahead. [applause] Today, I also have the honor to recognize the retiring staff of Belleville West in District 201. These individuals have given tirelessly to the Belleville West and District 2011 family. Their expertise and commitment to Belleville West and the community has been greatly appreciated. I would like to recognize our retirees. Miss Carnetta Chalmer's Mr. Charles John's Miss Paula Connealy Mr. John Lodel, Mr. Rick Meister, Miss Cindy Oberly Dom, Mr. Greg Oliver, Miss Lisa Quant, Miss Diane Steiner, Miss Sally Stevens, Mr.
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They're coming in. Uh no seed time either. Looks like Tinley Fector, Anna McFaren. I believe this might be Anna McFaren. It's Woodland actually. No. Yeah. Southern Wells in second. and then Woodland in third. This could end up being like shaping into one of the more exciting races and just getting things started as well. So this is a 3200 meter. They're about 600 in right now. It may look like Heritage and Southern Wells. Looks like Southern Wells may be overtaking Heritage for the lead at this moment. And I know at least Aubrey New and Schwander is likely going to be the anchor for Southern Wells. She might be one of the more likely champions in these distance races here tonight. So, it'll be interesting to see how close they can keep it. She's in the conversation to get the 400 meter record later on, too. But Heritage not letting go of this lead.
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[cheering] Montreal Hurst, >> Antonet Hitch, Anthony Hitch, [cheering] >> Kimberly Irwin, Ian Jack, >> [cheering] >> Jalia Jackson, Kaden Jackson, [screaming] Leila Jackson, Quinton Jackson, Xavier Jackson, [applause] >> Aurora Jacobs, Brandy Hyus, Jerel L. James, >> Joseph Jefferson, [cheering] >> Kamari Jenkins, >> Leila Jenkins, [cheering] Howard Jethro, Jordan Johnson, [cheering] Laniah Johnson, >> Karia Joiner, [cheering] >> Jeremiah Jones, Miley Jones, [cheering] Penny Jones, Alexavier Collie, [cheering] Kobe CHO, >> [screaming] [cheering] >> A Raymond Kra Hayden Cotton Brocker, [cheering] Brooke Keller, Jacob Kirsting, >> [applause] >> Leila Key, Latrice Kidd, Douglas Kingsbury, Bryce Kirchoff, Howler, [cheering] McKenna Koigdorf, >> Ariana Coler, Zachary Coots, [cheering] Luke Kavalsolski, Wyatt Cribs, [applause] Leah Cooch, Jordan Lancaster, [cheering] Rachel Langford, Caitlyn Lashley. [applause and cheering] >> I got it. Yep. >> Brandon Latin. >> [cheering] >> Jaca Latin, >> Kaylee Lo, Laya Lawrence Irish, Christopher Leech, Deja Leonard, [cheering] >> Eric Leisure, [cheering] Aubrey Lewis, >> Alexandra Lynn, Evan Little, Andrew Little John Kylong Lou Samantha Low Olivia London Elijah Lina Ina, [cheering and applause] Donovan Loveless, [cheering] Demarcus Lowry, [applause] Caleb Lewig, Riley Lusher, Kyle Liebarger, [cheering] >> Satie Liebarger, >> Chase Meiselle, [applause] Juel Manley, Dalen Marshall, >> Cassandra Matega, Chloe Matthysse, Vernon Matthysse, Cameron Matthews, Jayla Maddox, Bailey Maxwell, [cheering] Josie May, Robert Maybel, [cheering] Travis McAndrews, >> [cheering] >> Mario McCarter, Cheyenne McCarthy, Dariel Mcclacherie, Bradley McCrae III, [cheering] Keshan McCullum, [cheering] Olivia McGee, Roy McGawan, [cheering] Nicholas McGraw, [cheering and applause] Thomas Mcgru, >> [screaming] [cheering] >> Kindall McGrder, [applause] Amaya McKenzie, [screaming] Autumn McNab, Raven Mcnammy, Sayiah McNeel, [cheering] [screaming] >> Jordan McNeel, [cheering] >> James McWills, >> Coricia Merryweather, [cheering] Darren Mets, Cameron Middlebrooks, Jordan Milan, Amari Miner, Cordelyn Miner, [cheering] >> Zu Lima Miranda, Amila Mitchell, Cody Mitchell, >> [cheering and applause] >> Jana Mitchell, [screaming] >> Omar Muhammad, Lucas Mohler, Khalif Morehead, Khalil Morehead, >> [cheering] >> Cassidy Morland Mlan, Kandre Morgan, Julia Morrow, Bella Morski, Darius Mosby, Alice Mottinger, Olivia Miller, Noric Mugo, >> [cheering] >> Ethan Musk, >> Cleveland Miles, [screaming] Gallup Nasser, Yousef Nasser, [cheering] Keyron Nelson, [cheering] Chase Nesbbit, Jeffrey Netti, Colin Nuling, >> Reed Newmire, Hayden Nights, >> Da Nukem, >> Kaylee Nicholls, Aiden Nipper, >> [applause and cheering] >> Bailey Noli Jodie Norwood, >> Leila Norwood, [cheering] Jasmine Okampo, Kendall O'Neal, [cheering] Eliza Odin's Malachi Forum, [cheering] Ethan Hanifeha Omeraik Juan Ortega, Jordan Osborne, [cheering] >> Briana Owens, >> [screaming] >> Kayen Owens, [cheering] Hayden Wilson, Stella Wilson, [applause and cheering] Corel Hoffman, Okay.
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Tony Thompson, and Mr. Mike Trice. Thank you for your tireless efforts on behalf of our district and the students of Belleville West. Thank you. We also like to thank all faculty members who are volunteering today in order to make this a great event. In an effort to recognize the highest academic achievement of students in Belleville West, we have developed a program to honor students earning a GPA of 4.0 and higher. These students are identified by wearing different color stos. Students are also wearing different color cards. The National Honor Society, Student Council, Running Start, State Scholars, National Merit Scholars, Harambe, Departmental Honor Societies, and AVID, as well as various medals they have earned during their high school career. the exceptional students who have maintained a 5.0 GPA. Suma Kumlady, who will now deliver the class farewell. Ladies and gentlemen, class of 2026. Please welcome the representatives from Suma Kumlady, Alexis Seagull, Hannah Sternau, Julia Stock, Henrik Stubberg, Gabrielle Zang.
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Just a little bit of extra surge as she's coming around the last 100 meters. >> I would say this is Anna McFaren coming in second for Southern Wells. And if the names are in the correct order, it's going to be Olivia B for Heritage. So, nice impressive start for both of these individuals coming in around 235, I believe, on our unofficial clock. So nice strong starts but here by these middle school runners. You >> know Sophia Roel's trying to give Naomi Fry a little bit of room there for that battle for third between Bluffton and Woodland. We'll see if these runners can kind of chip away like it is a long event. So seeing if they can get their third and fourth legs in a little bit better positions. just about five meter lead. Looks like McFaren really is doing a nice job of closing the gap.
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I ask the class of 2026 to now please rise. [cheering] >> [applause] [cheering and applause] [applause] [cheering] >> It's almost time to celebrate. Please move your tassels from right to left to SIGNIFY [cheering] [applause] [cheering] to signify you are now a graduate of Belleville East High School. TO THE CLASS OF 2026, CONGRATULATIONS. [cheering] >> [cheering] [applause] >> Ladies and gentlemen, before our last round of applause, I do ask all families, parents, guardians to please wait in the gym until all students are out of the main gym and please exit quickly for the next ceremony. that is coming in. Ladies and gentlemen, another round of applause for the class of 2026. [cheering] [cheering and applause] Mr. Tessero, please lead us out. [cheering] Heat. [music] Heat. Heat. Heat. [music] >> [music] >> Love Hallelujah. Hallelujah. to [music] [cheering] heat. >> [music] [music] >> Hello. Let's go. >> [music] >> Come on.
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For our 2026 Sumakumla commencement speeches, we chose to frame the past four years through movie and TV show quotes. Each one of our speakers will incorporate a line into their speech from a movie or television show and build off the meaning behind it. Now, I personally love the show The Big Bang Theory, and the main character, Sheldon Cooper, once reflected, "It's a heart-wrenching realization that a place that once felt like home no longer does." Now, look, I was using my resources to prep for this speech, and Gemini swore that quote was from Sheldon. Turns out the AI lied to me, and Sheldon never said that. I have no idea who did, but I'm keeping it because Sheldon is right. Change can hurt. And today, it means realizing that we've outgrown this place that we once called home. And that may sound like a tragedy, but really, it's a triumph.
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Almost about to take the lead here 200 meters into their >> leg, but she just kind of sit there on the heritage runner and just kind of use her coast along with her. let her break the wind a little bit. >> Looks like Woodland possibly being Madison Watts >> maybe trying to make some ground up as well for the Warriors. It's always an interest trying to figure out how to race these relays as well is interesting too because you see Southern Wells making up that ground early in those 200 meters but Heritage coming around at like a 130 129 on that opening lap there. Um, so it's one of those situations like could Southern Wheels have gone a little bit too early where she could have just gradually made up ground instead. >> That's where like these really this 4 bite especially is kind of like a chess game.
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[cheering] [applause] Thank you. [cheering] >> [applause] [cheering] >> Graduates, please be seated. [cheering] >> Good afternoon. My name is Joe Ruditz and it is my pleasure as the principal of Belleville East to welcome you to the graduation ceremony for the class of 2026. [cheering] [applause] Before we begin the ceremony, I would like to take a moment of silence for the loss of our fellow classmates that passed away. >> Thank you.
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