001Oh my god, she could wear this on the other side. That is totally I mean, malicious compliance. Mhm. Oh my god. I don't know if they're going to need this. I don't know if they're going to need this. Make sure your pumps are down. Okay, I really like the YSL >> [music] >> Saint Laurent pumps and the top of the line. Those are my top three. That is so good. Now, one good one. >> I just had my tattoo. I just had my tattoo. >> [applause] [cheering] [cheering and music] [music] [cheering] [music] [cheering] [music] [applause and cheering] [music] >> Graduates and spectators, please be seated. Hello. My name is Bella Cons, and it is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2026 commencement celebration for Village High School. Thank you to all the family and
002friends who have joined us today, and congratulations to my fellow graduates. Above all, I would not be who I am today without God and my family's steadfast love. My mom and dad especially have guided me with their wisdom and encouragement and more support than I could ever name. All of our families have shaped us into the people we are today, watching us grow, and giving us advice we might not always want to hear in the moment. Here at the Village, we are blessed with an entire second layer of support through our teachers and friends who have made lifelong impacts on our lives. We all came to the Village for some reason, whether it be athletics, demanding activities, or just to be out of a traditional school setting. I transferred after my freshman year at Rampart,
003and it was the best decision I ever made. We often hear people refer to the Village as fake school, but we know the truth. It's the farthest thing from that. Our school has given us innumerable lessons that other students simply do not get. One of the main reasons that sets the Village apart is the mentor system we have. They are not only our teachers, but have walked alongside us outside of the classroom, guiding us with life. They are the ones who have believed in us every step of the way, especially when we were at 20% in Accelerate with a week left in school. I know a lot of us have been there. Our mentors care about us as people, not just as students. I'm lucky enough to have CR as my mentor. She has been
004my biggest cheerleader and has always believed in me. She has praised me in my achievements and encouraged me in my shortcomings. CR made it a priority to know about the details in my life and genuinely cared. At the Village, we get to forge our own path. We are given the flexibility to decide how we use our time. Nobody had the same schedule or layout, and that's what makes us better built for future endeavors. No one person is the same, and we have to learn learn to work with others around us who do things differently and want different outcomes. Whatever the case, Village taught us perseverance, to channel an internal drive, not just external pressure. Showing up even when nobody was watching, continuing when it was hard, and getting back up when we felt like there
005was no hope to finish. In the real world, we won't get the luxury of having someone to lean on every time something goes wrong. Thankfully, we have been equipped with the tools to tackle any challenge that comes our way. We have learned that there are consequences to our actions. Because we had the freedom, we had to be responsible. Because we had the responsibility, we needed persistence. These experiences have changed how we grew and shown us who we can become. The Village is a place of endless opportunities and is welcoming to all kinds of people. Although it was unfamiliar, we allowed ourselves to be open to trying something new. For me, this opened the door to the best group of friends I could ever ask for. Going into a new school not knowing anybody is scary,
006but I have learned that God gives us people and circumstances if we're willing to listen to the call. If we take the chance, it will make our lives so much more rich and meaningful. I encourage all of you, wherever you find yourselves, to find the community that fills your life with support and purpose. If we've learned one thing, it's that an uncertain future does not have to be a scary one. It's important to stay true to yourself and remember the people who are there to help us and want us to succeed. Now is the time to embrace inevitable change and hardships. Without challenges, there is no room for growth. Consult not your fears, but your hopes and dreams. Think not about your frustrations, but about your unfulfilled potential. Concern yourself not with what you tried
007and failed in, but what is still possible for you to do. Pope John the 23rd. What has the village given you, and how will you use that to change the world? Thank you and congratulations again. >> [applause] [applause] >> Now, please rise for the presentation of colors by Academy School District 20 color guard under the command of Cadet Technical Sergeant Chloe Lathman and the signing of the national anthem by Village High School student Siri Audman and signing by our senior ASL class. Oh, say can [singing] you see by the dawn's early [singing] light, what so proudly we [singing] held at the twilight's last gleaming, whose broad stripes and [singing] bright stars through the perilous [singing] fight, or the ramparts we [singing] watched were so gallantly streaming, and the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in
008air, gave proof through the night [singing] that our flag was still there. Oh, say, [singing] does that star-spangled banner >> [singing] >> yet wave for the land >> [singing] >> of the free and the home >> [singing] >> of the brave? >> [applause] >> Please be seated. Thank you, Siri and ASL students. Now, I would like to introduce Dr. Caroline Johnson, principal of Village High School. Thank you, Bella, for your thoughtful and eloquent words of welcome. As we continue this very special celebration, I would like to remind our audience that today is about creating a core memory for our graduates. This is a moment they and their families will carry with them for years to come. I kindly ask that you take a moment now to silence your cell phones so you can be fully
009present and share in this meaningful experience with our students. Class of 2026, you have made it. Graduation represents the culmination of 13 years of learning, growing, and striving towards a goal that once felt far away. Parents and families, I imagine the school years passed quickly. Though I am sure there were days that felt long along the way. Take a moment to think back to the first day of kindergarten. Was your child nervous? Excited? Were you? How about middle school? When mastering a locker combination and navigating multiple classrooms felt like a major accomplishment. Remember the first day of high school? The first school dance? The moment your child scored the winning point at a game? Or the day they truly found their place, found their home here at Village High School? You were there through the
010triumphs and the challenges, supporting your graduate as they learned how to navigate an increasingly complex world. Your guidance, patience, and encouragement helped shape the young adults we celebrate here today. Graduates, none of you reached this milestone on your own. Along the way, there were parents, guardians, family members, and caring adults who believed in you, sometimes even more than you believed in yourselves. At this time, we would like to recognize those individuals. If you are a parent, guardian, or someone who served in that role for one of our graduates, please stand so we can thank you and honor you for your unwavering support, encouragement, and love. >> [applause] >> Thank you. Graduates, another group of influential adults in your lives has been the teachers and staff at Village High School. The core of our learning model
011at Village High School is mentoring. Each year, students at the Village choose the teacher they want as their mentor. The role of a mentor teacher is to provide personalized support for each student. At the Village, we believe that strong, trusting relationships are the essential foundation for student success. Graduates, your teachers, especially your mentors, have shared their time, their wisdom, and guidance, and navigated you up with the ups and downs of your educational journey. Teachers were there to listen to you, to push you when you needed some tough love, and to celebrate with you when you achieved your goals. Teachers and staff at Village High School, please stand so we can recognize you. >> [applause] >> I also want to take a few minutes to recognize members of our Board of Education and members of Academy
012District 20 Central Administration. These are the people working behind the scenes to ensure our school has the resources and support required for teachers and staff to focus on what matters most, our students. Audience, please hold your applause until all names have been announced. Amy Shandy, Board President. Susan Payne, Vice President. Dr. Eddie Waldrip, Director and Village High School Liaison. Holly Tripp, Treasurer. Derek Wilburn, Director. And from Central Administration, Superintendent Ginger Haver. Deputy Superintendent and Chief Financial Officer Becky Allen was unfortunately not able to be here today, but definitely want to recognize her. Assistant Superintendent of Learning Services Dr. Susan Field, and Shane Knight, Executive Director for Learning Services. Let's give our Board of Education and members of Central Administration a round of applause. >> [applause] >> It is now my pleasure to introduce our superintendent
013Ginger Haberl. Superintendent Haberl, Colorado native, brings more than 30 years of educational experience and expertise to Academy District 20. She comes from a long family lineage of educators who instilled in her a desire to inspire others to be lifelong learners. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and starting her career pathway as a registered nurse, she soon realized that her true passion was being an educator. Superintendent Haberl has served in many roles from the classroom to administration, including earning national board certification as a science teacher, and serving as a middle and high school principal, an assistant superintendent of student achievement, and a superintendent for 5 years in the state of Washington. She is grateful to serve as the superintendent of D20, where the team one spirit ensures that all students thrive. Please help me
014welcome to the podium Superintendent Haberl. >> [applause] >> Well, good afternoon, Village High School Mountaineer graduates, family, friends, and distinguished guests, and most importantly, our amazing faculty uh at Village High School. Today, we gather in a place that stands as a symbol of commitment, discipline, and service here at Clune Arena on the grounds of the United States Air Force Academy. This is a place where young men and women choose a path defined not only by achievement, but by purpose, by a commitment to something greater than themselves. And today, Class of 2026, as we celebrate your milestone, you also are so important to identifying that purpose and making a difference in this world. Today marks the culmination of all your hard work, your dedication, and your resilience. You faced late nights, challenging exams, moments of doubt,
015but you persevered. You balanced friendship and homework and just enough sleep to function the next day. This is your moment to reflect on all you've accomplished. Our vision in D20 is that all students have the knowledge, skills, and character necessary to be successful beyond graduation, and none of this would have been possible without the help of your family, your friends, your teachers, your coaches, and other mentors. They've been with you every step of the way, and today we need to honor them for their great support in your lives. Let's give it up for our family, our friends, teachers, and mentors one more time. >> [applause] >> Personally, I'm reminded of my own parents, Carl and Jane Johnston, both public school teachers for over 30 years. One of the most significant values that they instilled in
016me was to be a lifelong learner. And growing up in a household of teachers meant there was always lots of encouragement, high expectations, and probably a reminder too about doing my homework. And even though they are no longer with me, their influence continues to guide me, and I encourage you to carry forward the lessons of those who have shaped your lives. So, graduates, listen to the wisdom that is shared with you by others. The following poem has inspired many over the years to reflect on the decisions that they will make in life. The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost. Two roads diverged in a wood, and sorry I could not travel both and be one traveler, long I stood and looked down one as far as I could to where it bent in the undergrowth.
017Then took the other as just as fair and perhaps having the better claim because it was grassy and wanted wear. Though as for that, the passing there had worn them really about the same. And both that morning equally lay in leaves no step had trodden black. Oh, I kept the first for another day. Though knowing how way leads on to way, I doubted if I should ever come back. And I shall be telling this with a sigh somewhere ages and ages hence. Two roads diverged in a wood, and I I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference. Graduates, this poem reminds us reminds all of us that choices that we make in life define our lives. And often the most meaningful choices are not the easiest ones. The road
018less traveled is the decision to be confident in who you are rather than comparing yourself to others. It's choosing kindness and assuming positive intent even when it would be easier to judge. It's choosing gratitude and contentment in a world that often promotes entitlement. It's committing to being a lifelong learner, remaining curious, thinking critically, and continuing to grow beyond high school. And most importantly, it's choosing to connect your purpose to something greater than yourselves, serving others, strengthening your community, and becoming a contributing citizen. Class of 2026, your future is full of possibilities, and I am confident that you will shape our world in remarkable ways. And as a D20 graduate, we welcome you back to share about your future adventures. And as you leave this place today, may you go forward with confidence in your choices
019and pride in your journey. Let's give it up for the class of 2026. >> [applause and cheering] >> Let's go, Mario. Thank you, Superintendent Hubbard. At this time, we will hear from another one of our students, Koa Lu. I am excited for you to hear Koa's message as he shares how Village High School supported his journey as a student while providing him the flexibility to pursue his passion of being a competitive athlete. >> [applause] >> Good afternoon, Superintendent, members of the Board of Education, teachers, parents, family, friends, staff, and most importantly, Class of 2026. My name is Koa Lu. I was not the class president or the valedictorian. I'm simply a student athlete. But one thing is for certain, we're all here because we achieved the shared goal, graduating high school. We We challenges along
020the way, such as being anxious about an upcoming test or stressing about our grades. But what matters is that we persevere. It feels like yesterday I walked into my kindergarten classroom. From counting to 100 to standing here today. There are so many memories to fill that space between. Personally, I've been competing in trampoline and tumbling for 14 years. That journey brought me four national championship titles, but more importantly, it taught me life lessons I will carry forever. There were days I did not want to show up to practice and days I thought about giving up. Some competitions were tough and they taught me that sometimes you learn more about yourself in defeat than you do in victory. That journey also gave me a dream bigger than myself, a dream to represent the United States at
021the Olympic Games. That dream has pushed me to work harder, rise after setbacks, and believe in myself even when the odds were stacked against me. Whether I reach the Olympics or not, the pursuit of that dream has already shaped who I'm becoming. With all that being said, one moment, breakthrough, or chance to prove yourself can change who you are for the better. So, whatever you do, don't stop now. Because the bright future you envision is closer than you think. As I look back on these past few months, I've experienced a major mix of emotions. Part of me is scared to graduate because I don't know what the future holds for me. But the other part of me is wondering, what if this next chapter is the best thing to happen to me? And in the
022next step, your attitude can change a lot. So, I believe that with a positive outlook, you're already building a great foundation for what lies ahead. The moment I reflect on this chapter of high school, the more I reflect or the more I realize what the village has done for me. Even though I was not at the village for all four years of high school, it was still an incredible experience. Whether we were gathered around the common area, going out for lunch, or competing in senior assassin, we were making memories every single day. Life moves fast and we don't realize it until we look back. As my favorite artist J. Cole once said, there's no such thing as a life that's better than yours, which to me it to cherish every moment we have and to
023slow down and appreciate what we have. Because everything we've worked for and dreamed of could be gone in an instant. There's no second chances. That's how quickly life moves. Take this moment right now. We're still here. We still have opportunities ahead of us. We have strength. We have a heartbeat, and we have a future. These all represent reasons to keep pursuing our goals in life. We have a choice to chase our dreams, not anybody else's, but our own. Take that opportunity and run with it. Because one day the final bell will ring, and I hope that you can say you lived your life to the fullest without regrets. If you have family here today, tell them you love them. My dad has been there every step of the way. Through early mornings, late nights, long
024drives, and endless travel to competitions, he never missed a beat. He encouraged me when I doubted myself, reminded me to keep going when I wanted to quit, and celebrated every win with me, big and small. There's no better feeling than hearing, "I'm proud of you." Dad, thank you for believing in me when I didn't fully believe in myself, for teaching me the value of hard work, and for showing me what unconditional love really means. Through everything, there will never be anyone who loves and supports you unconditionally like your family. So, take a moment to thank them. Your parents, guardians, and loved ones, because they helped you get here. And most importantly, thank God for bringing us here today. We are here to pursue our purpose and chase our dreams, no matter the circumstances. Keep faith,
025keep believing, and taking every moment. Class of 2026, remember this. Dreams like mine, dreams to reach the Olympics, dreams to change the world, dreams to be our best selves are all within reach if we chase them with courage, passion, and persistence. Life will challenge you, but it will also reward you for daring to try. Congratulations, Class of 2026. I'm beyond proud of us all. Thank you. >> [applause] >> Thank you, Koa, for your words of encouragement. I look forward to seeing what you accomplish in the future. Class of 2026, in just a few moments, you will walk across the stage and receive the diplomas you worked so hard to earn. The achievement of earning a high school diploma is not an easy task. It took perseverance, resilience, and determination to keep going. As you prepare
026for this next chapter of your life, you will hear a lot of advice about the future. Today, I want to leave you with one simple idea that I hope stays with you long after graduation, gratitude. Choosing gratitude can change the way you experience life, helping you focus on what is possible rather than what is missing. As you walk across the stage today, I hope you carry gratitude for your time at Village High School. Here, you earned your diplomas in a learning environment that values relationships and flexibility, rooted in the understanding that every student's educational journey looks different, and that's okay. When you came to Village High School, you intentionally chose a path that honored who you were as an individual and supported your unique needs and goals. A few years ago, I had an experience
027that changed the way I think about education. One of my favorite things to do is travel with my husband and experience different parts of the world. During one trip to a small Caribbean island, I noticed something I'd never seen before. Some children were walking to school in brightly colored uniforms, while others sat outside their homes watching them pass by. I asked our tour guide why some children weren't in school. He explained that education was not free, and many families simply could not afford to send their children to school. Then he told us how proud he was that he had a job that allowed him to send his own son to school. Even though I understood that education is not guaranteed everywhere in the world, seeing it firsthand affected me deeply. It reminded me how fortunate
028we are to live in a place where every child is given the opportunity to learn, grow, and pursue a future despite their personal circumstances. That is something worth appreciating. The education you received at Village High School matters and is something I hope that you are grateful for. The lessons you learned here go far beyond assignments, grades, or credits earned. Learning changes the way you think. It shapes your perspective, strengthens your confidence, and helps you discover who you are becoming. What makes Village truly special is not just the academics, it's the people. The teachers, staff, classmates, and relationships you built here shaped this chapter of your story. Those connections matter and they will stay with you long after today. Before you walk across the stage, I want to invite all of you, graduates, families, and guests,
029to pause for just a moment and reflect on three things you are grateful for today. Maybe it's a person who supported you, a challenge you overcame, or an opportunity that changed your life. Gratitude has a way of grounding us, especially during moments of change. With the busyness of life, it is easy to forget to pause, embrace the silence, and intentionally practice gratitude. In the wise words of American author Robert Brault, "Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things." Graduates, please know how deeply grateful I am for each of you and how truly honored I feel to have walked alongside you for part of your journey. I'm so thankful for the Village staff whose daily dedication to meeting students where they are and helping them grow
030is at the core of everything we do. I'm also incredibly appreciative to the Village community for the kindness and support you showed me during my first year here. You made me feel at home. Class of 2026, growth is not always comfortable and change is not always easy, but both are often necessary for us to become the best versions of ourselves. As you close this chapter, I hope you carry with you the courage to keep learning, the resilience to keep trying, the confidence to build a future that you are proud of, and a heart of gratitude for a life in which you get to write your story. Congratulations on all you have accomplished and best wishes as you use the lessons you have learned at Village High School to pursue your passions and goals with purpose.
031And now, Dr. Waldrop, I would like to present to you the class of 2026. As principal, I hereby certify that these young men and women have met the all the requirements to graduate from Village High School and are recommended for their diplomas. >> [applause] >> On behalf of the Board of Education of the Academy School District 20, I accept with pride and pleasure the class of at Village High School. Principal Carolyn Johnson, thank you, your faculty and your staff for doing an outstanding job. >> [applause] >> Staff, please prepare to present our seniors at this time. Front row, please stand and line up to receive your diplomas. A unique tradition at Village High School is each graduate chooses a staff member to read a thank you note as they walk across the stage to receive
032their diplomas. Thank you notes are a way for students to show gratitude for those who helped them along their journey and to celebrate their next steps as they venture out into the world. Now, it is with great pride that I present to you the graduating class of 2026. Drew Allen. I want to thank God, my mom, dad, and Sydney for supporting me through this chapter in my life. I will attend the University of Arizona in the fall. Wyatt Bates. Thank you to my parents for always being there for me. Aaron Raymond Beck. I give my thanks to TAC. I wouldn't have been able to graduate without your support. Jackson Bido. Thank you to all teachers at Village and what you have helped me do. My favorite class was barbecue because of the friends I made.
033The Village has prepared me for the future. I am sad to leave. >> [applause] >> Nathan Bender. I want to say thank you to Jimmy for supporting me this past year and my parents for always being there for me every step of the way. Morgan Anne Bitton. But right now these moments are not stories. This is happening. I can see it. This one moment when you know you're not a sad story. You are alive. And in this moment I swear we are infinite. The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Mason Blair. I would like to thank my amazing teachers for their support through my four years at Village. Thank you also to my family, teammates, and coaches. What an incredible experience it has been. I will continue playing junior hockey after graduation while pursuing higher education
034and collegiate hockey. Joseph [cheering] Blake I want to thank my family and friends. Thank you Alex K as well. Finally, I thank God. Alexander Rainier Bonilla I would like to thank my family, mom, dad, Umbi, Achu, Uncle Randall, and Christopher for helping me the past four years. Thank you also to my teachers and the staff who welcomed and supported me at the Village. My dad always said, "Be good, be smart, and make lots of friends." Calvin Bowman I would like to thank my mentor Miss Rediger. I would not be at this point in my academics today if it wasn't for her constant support. Miss Rediger, thank you so much for all of your time and help. John Breeding >> [cheering] >> CR, thank you for keeping me on track and always being there for me.
035Thank you to my family and friends for your support along the way. Thank you also to my aunts, Miss Lindsey, for playing a vital role in the Village and the community around it. >> [cheering] >> Kayla Sky Bryant >> [cheering] >> I have an endless amount of gratitude and love for my mentor Krista and teacher Catherine and best friend Arden. Thank you for all the nostalgic memories. Your impact means more than you know. Sophia Budge Thank you to my parents [cheering] and teachers for always helping me grow. Fiona Sky Campbell I would like to thank my family, my best friend, and my amazing mentor Amy Rediger for supporting me through high school. I plan on attending Pikes Peak State College to get my degree in business. Caitlin Ann Cassidy >> [cheering] >> Thank you to
036my mom, dad, and brother Will. I'm thankful for Carolyn and my friends for always loving me and most of all Jesus for all he has done. I will be studying design media through the Belhaven Co-College through Southeastern University. >> [cheering] >> Carter Sharon Even though I was only at the Village for a year, you did a phenomenal job of making me feel welcome and was probably the sole reason I'm graduating even though I found almost every way not to. Thank you Jimmy for being there for me throughout the year. Claire Sinkada I would like to thank my parents, friends, and the Lord for getting me through high school. Thank you to my teachers at Village, especially my mentor Redinger for putting up with me. I will attend Western Michigan University to get my BFA in
037musical theater. Landon Clark I want to thank my mom, papa, dad, brother, aunt Bev, and the rest of my family. Without you, I would not be the person I am today. I also don't want to thank my teachers at Liberty for helping me finish this year strong. Lastly, thank you to everyone else who has helped me throughout my life. Kira Clay, thank you to my friends, teachers, and family for supporting me through the years. You have made my high school experience favorable and unforgettable. And a big thanks to my mentor for cheering me on. Miranda Grace Coltrane Thank you to my best friends for supporting and making me laugh. My mentor Amy for being there from the beginning and my family for encouraging me when things were the hardest. Andrew Connolly Heather, thank you for
038being the goat teacher in your your rookie year at Village. You talked to me more than any other teacher all high school. I will always remember the talks in our marketing classes and how much you shared about investing as the highlights of my senior year. Gabriel Adam Cutter Thank you to my family for their support and help throughout high school. I also want to thank Nash for his help with my schedule and making sure I was doing the best thing for me. Kanyel James Dalrymple I want to thank God for giving me the strength to get me through the journey and my parents for the constant love and support and for always pushing me to do my best. I also appreciate my teachers and mentors for their time, patience, and guidance. Ambry Hayes Davenport The
039Village has been a place I found a community and within it I have grown. My family, teachers, and friends have supported me and I can't thank them enough. I can't wait for this future all of you have helped me shape. Thank you. >> [applause] >> Kaden David De Coste I first want to thank God for guiding me through high school. I'm also very grateful for my parents for their support and thank you to my mentor Jimmy for his advice in helping me grow. Alexis Cora Dehart >> [cheering] >> I want to thank my amazing parents for their undying support towards everything I do. Also my sister who inspires me to be better every day. Thank you to all the teachers who have made this school feel like home over the past 4 years. >> [applause]
040>> Malia Kiare Delamou. Thank you to my family and friends for helping me through high school, even if it wasn't the normal experience. Thank you TAC for your constant guidance and encouragement. Thank you mom and dad for always believing in me, especially dad for the math help, which was much needed. James Cooper Driggers. To my mom, dad, and grandparents, thank you for the hours in the car and the gym, and advice through the years. Thank you to Mr. Stewart for taking on a scared freshman and turning me into a confident man. After graduation, I will continue my athletic and academic career at UCCS. Isabelle Rose Egan. First, thank you to Jesus for his faithfulness in my life and for his many blessings. Thank you mom and dad, my family and friends for your support, love,
041and encouragement. Next year, I will be attending Oral Roberts University, and I'm so excited to see what this next season brings. Jones Michael Egan. >> [cheering] >> I want to thank my mom and dad for pushing me to be my best. I want to send a massive appreesh to my friends and sibs for keeping the stoke up, and to Jesus for always coming in clutch. I'm excited to go to Oral Roberts University next year. Go Eagles. >> [cheering] >> Ryan Daniel Egan. I want to say thank you to my parents for making me do my homework. I want to thank Carolyn for helping me through high school. In the fall, I will be heading to Oral Roberts University. Teagan Erlichman. I want to thank my family and teachers who have helped me through the years.
042I want to thank my friends for being there when I needed them. Khaled Kamel Elwazir. >> [cheering] [applause] >> First, I want to thank God for allowing me to reach this point in my life. Next, thank you to my parents and family for supporting me through everything. And also, I would like to thank my mentor Jimmy for his help and support as well as Blaine. You both helped me through a lot. Milo Erickson. >> [cheering] >> To Kevin and my family, thank you for keeping me on track and supporting my academic goals. I will be forever grateful for your support and guidance. Arden Carif Peterson. >> [screaming] >> I want to thank uh share a big thank you to my mom who has always supported me through everything. My best friend Kayla, who I couldn't
043have done this without. And my lovely village teachers. >> [applause] >> Charlie Felton. >> [cheering] >> Thank you Mom, Dad, and Cole for always being there with your constant support. Thank you to my teachers, especially Kevin, Sherry, and Moose for being the best mentors for me. And a big thank you to my friends. I'll forever be grateful for each of you. Dylan Fish. I want to thank DJ Khaled. They didn't believe in us, but God did. And shout out to Scarlett Johansson. I will be attending BYU-Idaho. Addison Mackenzie Gassmeyer. Thank you to my family, friends, and teachers for your support. It means everything to me. I plan to major in health science and become a radiological technician and I'm excited for what's ahead. Gray Gabbard I want to say thank you to my mom and
044dad for being my biggest supporters, my sister, and lastly my best friend for listening to me. You guys got me here. Sydney Elise Gallahar I give all the glory to God for this moment and thank my family for being a constant source of love and support. Congratulations to the class of 2026. I can't wait to see the places our next adventures take us. Amaya Grace Gordon >> [screaming] >> I would like to thank my friends and family for helping me to be my best. Overall, I would like to thank God because if it weren't for him, I wouldn't be where I am today. After high school, I will attend cosmetology school and I'm excited to see God's plans for me. Kaylee Marie Grippentrog I want to thank my parents for supporting me endlessly. Miss Webster
045for always being a friendly face. After high school, I plan to pursue a degree in animal science. >> [applause] >> Max Gudonis >> [cheering] >> I want to thank my mom, grandma, coach Shawn, my teachers and friends for helping me to get through high school. I would never have gotten to this point without you. You have helped me grow into the man I am today and I couldn't be more thankful. Pierce Capercamp I want to thank God, my family, and my awesome mentor Kevin. Village High School shaped me into the man I am today and I will always be one of the best parts of my life. Grace Francis Harmon I'd like to thank my friends who make everyday fun and who are always there for me. My parents for always pushing me to do
046better and for being my number one cheerleaders. And to all the staff here for giving me the support I needed to succeed. >> [applause] >> Caleb Keith >> [cheering] >> Thank you to my mom, my dad, and my mentors throughout high school for supporting me and always being in my corner. Jessica Laura Heiler >> [cheering] >> I want to thank my family for their love and support in everything I do. My mentor Carolyn for being like my school mom and my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for being with me always. In the fall, I will attend Samford University. Mark Hawking >> [cheering] >> Thank you to my mom who has always supported me no matter what was going on and for being the most understanding person in my life. Tawana Ariana Hadza First and foremost,
047I'd like to thank God for being my strength through high school. I'd also like to thank my mom, my sisters, and all the teachers who've helped me along the way. Luke Holtzman >> [applause and cheering] >> Thank you mom and dad for being so supportive with school and volleyball and thank you Mr. Colgate for pushing me to be my best self. >> [applause] >> Rowan Vera Halls I am really thankful for my family for supporting my journey to get where I am today. And thank you to all my friends for providing me with the most unforgettable and enjoyable experiences these past two years. Alia A.J. Johnson >> [cheering] >> Thank you to my parents for inspiring me and keeping me going. To all my friends who made high school worth experiencing and to my teachers
048who made me love school again. Thank you, Jesus, that I've made it and have faith and hope for a bright future. >> [applause and cheering] >> Austin Blake Jones I would like to thank all the teachers I have had and my mentor CR for helping me this past 4 years. I would also like to thank my family, coaches, and friends who have supported me, grown with me, and been there for me throughout my entire life. >> [applause] >> Matthew Christopher Jones I'd like to thank my parents for pushing me to do hard things to become the best version of myself. Thanks to my mentor Jason for keeping me organized and on track and everyone at the village. Josh Keen I would like to thank my family, teachers, and mentor Phil Savage. Thank you for all
049your guidance. The village has been my second home and will forever hold a special place in my heart as I advance into the next chapter of my life. Sayla Rose Kenneram >> [cheering] >> Thank you to my parents for helping raise me all these years. Thank you to my mentor Jimmy and to Jake for keeping me accountable. Lastly, thank you to my friends for making this year fun. >> [applause] >> Clarissa Knutson >> [cheering] >> I want to thank God for guiding me and giving me amazing opportunities. My parents for always being there and giving me a blessed life. And my teacher Tack for helping me become confident to do great things. My future plans are to work as a CNA and to go to cosmetology school. Isabella Rose Cons I would like to thank
050God for the blessings he has bestowed upon me, my family and friends, and most importantly my mom and dad for their constant love and support. I am grateful for my teachers at the Village, especially CR and Carolyn. I will be studying nursing at Ave Maria University. Emily Christina Coons. I want to thank my parents for supporting me in my sport and academically. I could not have done it without them. Thank you Angela, CR, Flame, Susan and Jake for your influence and help. I plan to attend Samford University to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. >> [applause] >> Gretchen Krammes. As this era comes to an end, I would certainly wouldn't have made it here alone. I want to thank my parents for pushing me to do my best and the teachers I got to
051call my besties during their these four years. >> [applause] >> Mary Christine Kundert. Thank you to Susan and all of my teachers for being the real goats and helping me through. My flabbers have been gasted with all the love and support of the Village the past few years. I can't wait to attend UCCS next year. Elijah Mikael Lockett. >> [cheering] >> In deep gratitude, I want to thank my family, friends, and those who have poured support into my life. You all have made the last 18 years so full, and you'll never know the overflow your support has had in my life. I will study business at Biola University and pursue a dance career. >> [applause] >> Koa Xander Lou. >> [cheering] >> I would like to thank my dad and sister for being there every
052step of the way. My teammates and coaches for always believing me, and most importantly, thank you to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Owen David Malek >> [cheering] >> I thank God for his guidance and my family for their constant support. Village High School has given me the flexibility to balance school and soccer by earning my diploma while living my dream. I'm grateful for this journey and excited for what comes next. >> [cheering] >> Owen Manweiler >> [applause] >> Thank you to my family for your help and support these 12 long years and thank you to my mentor Carolyn. Without you, I would have never made it. Jackson Marshall I would like to thank my mom and dad, brothers and sister, Coach Sev, Coach Sutton, and all of my teachers and friends being there with
053me. I'm planning on attending UCCS to compete in track and field at the D2 level. I look forward to what comes with it. Isaiah Massey I want to thank my mom for always being there and supporting me. I want to give all glory to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for helping me rise to every occasion. I also want to thank my teachers and mentor Shawn for always believing in me. >> [applause] >> Michaela Teagan Mayberry >> [cheering] >> I love everyone at The Village, but want to especially thank Krista, Coach Shannon, and Coach Olney. You guys are the coolest. Thank you also to my family for always being there to love and support me. Caitlin McArthur I want to thank my parents, teachers, and my coaches. Cadence Annalee Micula >> [cheering] >> I want
054to thank my parents, brother, friends, teachers, and most importantly God. After I graduate, I will attend Western Colorado University and study exercise science to become a physical therapist. Nathan Joshua McElhiney I want to thank my parents and my brothers that have supported me and pushed me every step of the way. I wouldn't be here without you. Hayden Joshua Mezei I want to thank God above all and then I want to thank my parents and my family for helping me become the person I am today. Addison Miller >> [cheering] >> Thank you to Shannon Baker and Katie Reddington for always helping me succeed in the classroom as a person. Thank you to my family for your endless support. I plan to attend Santa Barbara City College and play volleyball and major in environmental science. Riley Miltko
055I would like to thank my parents, my brother and sister, and everyone who helped me get through high school. My future plans are to attend UCCS while I play junior hockey and get a degree in sports analytics. >> [applause] >> Holly Mikolon I want to thank my parents for supporting me through my goals and aspirations. I would not be who I am today without them. I also want to thank God for guiding my path and keeping me strong in faith and courage. Emma Katherine Nachtigal I want to thank my parents and siblings for supporting me in everything. I will miss you. Anthony Prince Engebretson >> [cheering] >> I would like to thank my family and friends and the Lester family for bringing me in and a special thank you to Yoda. Presley Olsen. I am
056so grateful to my mom and dad family, Miss Stevens and Miss Brubaker for equipping me with the tools to persevere. Your guidance has taught me how to navigate tough situations and overcome adversity. Thank you for believing in me and helping me become who I am today. Rowan Alexander Orgel. I want to thank my mentor Tack for always having an answer to my seemingly impossible questions. Thank you to every teacher I had throughout my four years here, especially my senior year teachers. You helped me get here each day. Alexa Grace Orourke. Thank you mom, dad, and fam for always supporting me. To Logan, Jacob, Flan, and Tessa, thank you for getting me through the rough days. I'm forever grateful to you. In the fall, I'm attending CU KC for radiology. Mackenzie Victoria Osorio. I want to
057thank my parents, family, and friends for loving me. My mentor Krista for always being there for me and especially God because without him nothing is impossible. I will be serving a mission in Chile Santiago South starting in the fall. >> [applause] >> Cameron Padgett. God made a way for me to be here today. I'm so grateful for my family, teachers, and coaches who supported me along the way. I'm excited to be attending the University of Wyoming after graduation. Oliver Haight Parent. >> [cheering] >> I want to thank my parents for letting me switch to the village. I will be going to play junior hockey next year. Asher Bruce Parks >> [cheering] [screaming] >> Just want to give a what up to my friends, teachers, and family for supporting me through these past 4 years. My
058stoke would not be where it's at today without the people around me. It's been real fun. It's been fun, but it honestly hasn't been real fun. Emma Louise Parks >> [cheering] >> Thank you to everyone that helped get me here today, especially my family, Jimmy, CR, and TAC. I'm looking forward to finding new opportunities for my future. Zack Peterson >> [cheering and applause] >> Thank you, CR, for being my mentor for the last couple of years. You inspired my interest in chemistry and put an extra effort into every class you helped me learn. Savannah Grace Elaine Piano >> [screaming] >> I want to thank my friends and family for always being there. Special thanks to my mentor, CR, for pushing me to be the best version of myself. I will start my career with my
059aesthetician's license. Avea Layla Pittinger Thank you to my mom and dad for constantly supporting me and pushing me to be my best. Thank you to Kevin and Sherry who made high school so enjoyable. A big shout-out to all my friends. I'm so grateful for the love and owe it to all the people around me. Brooklyn Taylor Pol Miller >> [cheering] >> I want to thank my amazing parents and my brother for all the love and support they give me every day. Rylan Dorothea Powell I am so grateful for all the new people I met and the connections I made. I am most grateful for my friend Rowan who is the reason I came here and my mentor Katie who is always looking out for me. Ryan Nicholas Prater. I want to thank my mom for
060her unwavering support and love throughout my life. I would never have been able to make it to this point without her. She has saved me more times than I can count. I love you mom and thank you. Brecken Berlinski Ramsey. >> [cheering and applause] >> Thank you mom and dad for always supporting me in everything I do. Thank you to my twin brother Ethan for being there for me and my younger siblings for the fun and laughs. Most importantly, I thank God for giving me a beautiful life. Ethan Berlani Ramsey. >> [cheering] [applause] >> I want to thank everyone who got me to this point. I want to thank God for giving me an able body and mind. My parents and my siblings Brecken, Ridge, Gemma, and Vivi for making me better. Emma Robinson. >>
061[cheering] >> I want to thank my family for supporting me through my failures and successes and my highs and lows since day one. In the words of David Bowie, I don't know where I'm going from here, but I promise it won't be boring. >> [applause and cheering] >> Caleb Daniel Robinson. Thank you mom and dad for all you have done. I appreciate you being there for me. Carolyn, thank you so much for keeping me on track. I appreciate all you have done. Maya Rodriguez Sanchez. I want to thank my parents and family for their constant love and support and always pushing me to do my best. Thank you to my friends for the memories we made along the way. After high school, I will attend cosmetology school to pursue my passion. >> [applause] >> Joseph
062Alec Ralph I want to thank my parents for always supporting me, my teachers and mentors for guiding and pushing me to improve. A special thank you to Katie Fehr for everything you have done for me. If I ever leave a mess behind, don't worry. I run Clearway Junk Removal. So, I've had plenty of practice cleaning things up. The number is 719-439-7638. Dr. Johnson, you are the best best principal ever. Gabriel Santian Thank you to my grandma for driving me to school and for the homemade lunches. Thank you to my sister for helping me with Spanish. Tracy, thank you for always checking in and making sure I had the tools to graduate. Last, thank you, Mom, for pushing me forward and believing in me. Helen Shafer Thanks to everyone at the village village for supporting me
063and a special thanks to my precious little sister and CR. Here's an axolotl pun as a thanks. What do you call an axolotl that just graduated from high school? A time to relax a lot. Anna Carroll Shelton >> [cheering] >> I would not be where I am today without the support of those around me. Thank you to my family for their endless love and encouragement and to my mentors and friends for helping shape who I am. I thank God for his sovereign providence over for life. Carson Seeley Thank you, Mr. Colgate, for all the help over the years. Also, thank you, Mom and Dad, for pushing me to be better. Kalli Selvik I want to thank my parents for getting me to where I am now. I felt like the journey getting here was a
064lot harder than it should have been, but they supported me all the way through and believed in me always. Emalise K. Shimanski >> [cheering] >> I'd like to thank my parents. I would never have been here without them, but I'd especially like to thank my tutor, Jess, and my mentor, Amy. They are the reason I did so well in my classes. >> [applause] [cheering] >> Finley Sherman >> [screaming] >> I want to thank my parents for their never-ending love, support, and kindness. Their perseverance through adversity and injustice is something I hope to embody moving forward. Joey Slate Thank you to my mentors, Alex and CR, for the guidance, time, and support. I am grateful to my parents for always believing in me and encouraged me me when I needed it most. Finally, thank you to
065my teachers for helping me learn, grow, and reach this point in my education. >> [applause] >> Alora Rain Smith I want to thank my parents for being my support, my world, and my source of joy. I also want to thank my mentor, teachers, and friends for giving me support throughout high school. I will be pursuing my passions as an artist and creator. Colby Smith >> [cheering] >> Thank you to my teachers, mentors, and family for your support and encouragement. I'm grateful for everything you've done and will carry these lessons with me. Reese Smith >> [cheering] >> I'm super excited to be graduating. Thank you to my family and friends for supporting me through everything, especially my sister Finley. I will be working as a CNA during my gap year and can't wait to see what
066the future holds for me. >> [applause] >> Miley Paige Snyder. I'm very thankful for my parents, friends, teachers, and boyfriend for supporting me these last 4 years. I plan on going into the military after high school. >> [applause] >> Elizabeth Grace Stanford. >> [cheering] >> Thank you to my parents for your support, encouragement, and belief in me. Thank you to my teachers for guiding and supporting me. After graduation, I will teach children about the Lord at a camp in England and then attend Boyce College. Cabot Steinbart. I would like to thank my parents for pushing me to become the best version of myself and my mentor Kevin for putting up with my absurd class schedules and assignments. Most of all, I would like to thank the village for giving me a home when no one
067else would and for building my beliefs and values that I will carry for the rest of my life. Caitlin Marie Sullivan. I'd like to thank my parents who have supported me all throughout high school, especially my mom who is my biggest role model. After high school, I will be attending CU Boulder and majoring in psychology. Dylan Marcella Teague. >> [cheering] >> Thank you to my parents, Katie Redinger, Shannon Baker, and Jake McBride for supporting me in building my future. I plan to attend Colorado School of Mines majoring in chemical engineering. >> [cheering and applause] >> Sandrine Tremblay I would like to thank my parents for always supporting me and encouraging me to chase my dreams. Adriana Beltusci I would like to thank my family and teachers for believing in my aspirations, my counselor Jake for
068assisting me with college preparation, and my mentor Nash for his support and guidance. Megan Bury Vinicius Thank you [cheering] to Courtney Bushnell and Susan Nolan for helping me through my high school years. You will forever be women I admire and look up to as I continue to grow. To my family and friends, I couldn't have done this without you. Rowan Bedatou I will be attending Purdue University School of Engineering as a member of their Naval Reserve Officer Training Program, majoring in nuclear engineering with a minor in Naval Science. I plan to commission as a submarine warfare officer after college. Thank you to my parents, coach, and best friends for their support. Sophia Grace Bolby >> [cheering] >> Big thanks to my family, teachers, and friends who put up with my shenanigans. Y'all are the real
069ones. Shout out to JC from Tube for being real. Catch you on the flip side. >> [applause] >> Grace Bates I would like to thank my family, friends, teachers, and staff at Village, especially my mentors Martha and Logan, and a big thank you to those who made me smile. Keegan Michael Walker I want to thank my family, friends, and teachers for their love, encouragement, and guidance throughout my high school years. I wouldn't be standing here today without each and every one of you. Lindsay Ann Warner. >> [screaming] >> Thank you Thank you to the teachers who told me I am the best. Thank you to the teachers who have put that to the test. Thank you to Sherry for being my life vest. Many friends made and lessons learned, for that I am so blessed.
070Matthew James Warner. >> [cheering] >> If you want to make the world a better place, take your a look at yourself in the mirror and make a change. Wyatt White. >> [cheering] >> Thank you to my family for supporting me always, and thank you to Nathan for founding this wonderful school, and for the teachers who carry the Village mission forward. I will be studying mechanical engineering at Colorado School of Mines. Abigail Grace Whitlock. Thank you to my mentor Amy and counselor Kimmy for always keeping me on track. Thank you to my family, especially my older brother, for always supporting me through my journey through life. I will attend University of Miami majoring in exercise physiology. Suri Annabelle Raleigh Williams. Thank you to my mom, brother, Savannah, and Dante for holding my hand, encouraging my motivation.
071Thank you to Susan for always reminding me to take a breath, even when high school got hard. As to my future, I plan on enlisting and becoming a soldier. Go Army. Kyle [cheering] Edward Willis. I want to thank everyone in my life who helped get me to this point, specifically my parents and brother for their support, and my teachers who helped me learn what I needed to get here. I will always remember high school, but I'm thankful it's over. Shelby Worsig. Thank you to Mrs. Redinger and my friends for having faith in me. Mrs. Redinger, you never gave up on me and I don't think that is something I could ever repay you properly for. Kendall Denise Wright. >> [screaming] >> There have been ups and downs to high school, but at the end of
072the day they have helped me become who I am today. Thank you to my parents, step-parents, siblings, friends, and cousin Cameron. I really am who I am today because of you. Maya Rose Yates. >> [cheering] >> Thank you to CR, Shannon Baker, and my family for always believing in me and helping me become the best version of myself. I plan to attend Guilford College majoring in exercise science and playing collegiate volleyball. >> [cheering] >> Isabelle Zarowsky. Thank you to everyone that helped me find my voice. Thank you to Susan, Redinger, Flan, Nash, and Jake for your support. Can't wait to show my abs in college. Juliana Zenz. >> [applause and cheering] >> I would like to thank my family for always being supportive, for my mom for all the late nights, and dad for always
073being there. I would like to thank my siblings for the silly moments over the past 4 years. I will be attending ASU in the fall. >> [applause] >> Let's give one more round of applause to the class of 2026. >> [cheering] >> Time, please prepare to receive our graduates. Class of 2026, please stand. Congratulations, you are now officially graduates of Village High School. You may now move your tassels from the right to the left. >> [cheering] [applause] [cheering] [applause] >> Thank you for attending this year's Village High School graduation, Class of 2026. As you recess out to celebrate with your family and friends, do so with a heart of gratitude for the memories you have made and the bright futures you have ahead of you. And never forget you will always be part of the
074Village family. One more round of applause for the CLASS OF 2026. >> [cheering] [applause] [cheering] >> I'M A CHAIN OF ALL of the colors and all the crazy We can live in a world of dreams. Cuz every night the brightest colors fill my head. A million dreams are keeping me >> [cheering] >> awake. I see the world the world could be the dream I see a dream A million dreams is all it >> [cheering] [cheering] >> Here's a house for >> [cheering] >> all the wizards. I think it's for Special things I can buy. >> [cheering] >> Each one there to make you smile on a rainy day. They can say they can say it all sounds crazy. I don't know.