001Hello. Welcome to the 2026 ASD beginning graduations for South High School. Can I get the crowd to show me some excitement? >> Is that the best you got, South Wines? As part of what we're doing here, this is new this year. My name is Corey from Team ASD. I'm here with Hayden Owens. She's a junior and honor marshall. We're going to interview a few students before the actual graduation and then we'll also have Dr. Alman. So, Hayden, tell me a little bit about yourself. >> Um, I'm in student government and I've been in cheer for about three years and I love S. >> Awesome. I'm gonna let you take it away. You get to interview. >> All right. All right. Okay, who do I have here with? >> Meadow Carr. And what is your favorite
002high school memory? >> My favorite high school memory would be playing volleyball with my best friends Ellie Cleven, Ellie Burch, and our manager, Iris Bro. >> All right. And then what are your plans for after high school? After high school, I will attend UAA and practice dental hygiene. All right. >> Awesome. We'll be back with more. Thank you, guys. You guys are hearing the sounds of our awesome South Band and Orchestra. Let's give it up for them, please. We're back again. I'm with Hayden and she got some of her fellow classmates soon to be graduates. I'm going to hand it over to her. >> All right. Who am I here with? >> Garrett Obins, JC Greenwood. All >> right. Did you guys play any sports during your South? >> Yeah, I played football. >> I
003played hockey. >> And then what are your favorite moments from them? >> I'd probably say one semi-finals against West 2410 and the whole student section rage the field. Definitely uh beating West in one of the longest uh high school hockey games ever. >> All right. And then any last words for the underassman? >> You know, have fun. Enjoy it cuz uh high your high school career is too short. >> Don't skip leg day. [laughter] >> I have one last question. Do you want to shout out anybody in this crowd? Is your family here? >> Yeah. If my mom's here, shout out. Shout out Jenny Church. You know, go mom. I love you. You created me. Let's go. Definitely shout out my family. Mom, dad, sister. Love you guys. All right, let's give them some noise.
004[cheering] Hallelujah. Heat. Heat. Heat. All right, let's give it up for our band and orchestra. [applause] All right, I have a few questions for our Dr. Almond. All right, what is your favorite thing about being a principal here at South? >> I think my the thing I appreciate most is just the community support we have. So, big round of applause for everybody who's here tonight who made a big contribution. >> All right, Evan, what's your favorite thing about class of 2026? >> I think if I had to give you guys one characterization, they're the class that brought a lot of spirit back to the school. I still remember to this day their freshman SOB boss assembly and they were so much louder than every other class and they still are. So that's kind of their
005character and I think how they're going out today at graduation. >> All right. And then any last words for your graduates? >> Um I just want to give my fellow 1998 graduate any 98 graduates in the house? No. Okay, [laughter] that's me. And just um I think we'll wish them good luck and as best we can in the ceremony, but just a general good luck. Uh today is a big big day and I've told them when you walk out of that door and high school is officially over that's kind of where it all starts. So let the learning begin. The real learning that is. >> All right. Can I get a round of applause for Dr. Alman? [applause and cheering] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. >> [music] [applause] [music] >> Heat. Heat.
006Heat. Heat. >> [music] >> Heat. Heat. Hurry up. Let's go, baby. Fire. Hello. [cheering] Come on. >> [cheering] >> Good job. This is >> [music] >> Cheers. If I could have everyone take a seat, please. >> Okay. Well, hello and welcome to South Anchorage High School's 2026 graduation ceremony. My name is Addison Bailey and I am this year's valadictorian senior class president and your master of ceremonies for today. I want to extend a warm welcome to our superintendent Dr. Bryant and ASD board member Mr. Mcdana who are joining us on stage as well as all of the parents, families, and friends gathered with us here today to celebrate the class of 2026. At this time, please stand for the presentation of colors by South's JOTC members Archer Shelby, Ethan Anderson, Ariana Bristo, and Christopher Henkins.
007Following the presentation of colors will be the national anthem performed by senior Jillian Singleton. Oh, say can [singing] you see by the dawn early light. What so proudly we held [gasps] at the twilight last gleaming whose broad stripes and [singing] bright stars through the perilous fight [singing] or the ramparts we watched [singing] were So gallently [singing] streaming and the rockets red. The bombs bursting in air gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. [singing] Oh, say does that star [singing] spangled yet wave or the land of the free and the home of the brave. [cheering] >> [applause] [applause] >> Okay. Thank you to South Jotc and Jillian. Now, please welcome Now, please welcome South principal, Dr. Luke Olman, to the podium for our land acknowledgement and his opening remarks. Before we begin
008our graduation ceremony, we acknowledge that we gather here today on the traditional lands of the Denina people of the Cup or Cook Inlet. For thousands of years, the Denina people have been and continue to be the stewards of this land. ASD is committed to diversity and inclusion and it is with honor and respect that we recognize all indigenous people who live and learn in our community. Please be seated graduates. Good afternoon and once again, welcome to the South High class of 2026 graduation ceremony. Based on our shared challenges this year, the strength of the community which surrounds our schools is more important than ever. I was reminded earlier this year during one of our seniors capstone speeches that nothing important changes unless everyday citizens pull their efforts and exert pressure on the systems to make
009positive change. That is true now more than it has been ever. And it is in that spirit that I'd like to recognize people who show up, put forth effort, and who make today possible. So, first I want to thank the music department and your students who are all seated there in the back. Music programs are more precious than ever. This event derives much of its power from its soundtrack. Round of applause for our musicians today. [applause] I also want to thank our graduation coordinator, Lydia Frankenberger, who spends weeks planning this event and making sure students and staff, as well as parents, know what to expect. Round of applause for Miss Frankenberger. [applause] also would like to thank our PTSO who lend us a tremendous amount of support both material and in person throughout the year
010including this afternoon. So shout out to our PTSO board especially [applause] and also I want to thank all of our guests today who have had a part in supporting had a part that is in supporting all of these students throughout their education. Each one of you have made some kind of difference, large or small, in all of their lives. And we know that it takes an entire community to provide a path to success for our students. Today, we get to celebrate that community effort. So, give yourself a round of applause. [applause] And perhaps more importantly, I'd like to thank my entire faculty and staff. In the best of times, it is challenging to be an educator. And in our own time, that demand often outstrips our resources. Yet, you keep showing up, setting expectations, providing
011opportunities and support, and encouraging our students. That's what character and integrity looks like in real life. Don't ever forget that what you do matters. All of the graduates sitting on the floor today are a literal manifestation of the collection of our efforts over the past four years. >> [applause] >> And with that, we are going to do the beginning of graduation ceremony where you get your cell phones out. And we want to start with gratitude. So graduates, you're looking at me strangely in the hallways. I would be telling you something totally different. But do get your cell phone out. The idea is I would like you to text someone in your contact list who had a really important role in supporting you so that you could get to graduation today. And then when you send
012that text, I'd really like you to put that phone underneath your seat for the rest of the ceremony. So I'll give you a few minutes to do that right now. And everyone else is welcome to join us if you would like to share of gratitude with those in your list. Okay. And I'm going to keep an eye on you. When I start to see phones getting tucked, we'll know we're ready to begin. So, take a short bow if you can and put that underneath there. Okay. You guys have quicker thumbs than I do. All right. Before we start our celebration and on a slightly more solemn note, I would be remiss in not mentioning that the South High School community and other school communities across the Anchorage School District have experienced the loss of students,
013parents, and family members over the past year. To honor their influence on our school community and their absence from our ceremony today, I would like to give everyone a moment to reflect and to join me in a moment of silence. Thank you. At this time, I would like to bring Addie back to the podium to deliver her validtory speech. Addison plans to attend the Colorado School of Minds in the fall as a member of the Grandly Grandandy Honor Program to major in engineering and play play NCAA collegiate soccer. She hopes to become a civil engineer or a doctor after graduating. Please welcome Addie to the stage. [applause] Um, good afternoon family, friends, faculty, and most importantly, the graduating class of 2026. As you've been told, my name is Addison Bailey, and I'm honored to be
014this year's valadictorian and senior class president. As someone who is always planning ahead and stressing about what comes next, today is a day to breathe. For once we get to pause, no deadlines, no assignments, no pressure about what's due tomorrow, just this moment. There is no next class with Mr. Wilson where we read stories by Edward Fitzgerald. No next So boss where Eddie and Lucas shake it in front of the entire student body. No more rushing back from canes waiting for the Fhaul door to unlock or pretending we understood the math homework we definitely didn't do. Today we recognize not only the past four years, but everything that came before them. The sixth grade graduation we never got because of COVID. The orange out spirit day on our last day of middle school or playing
015on the playground at recess. This is a celebration of our history. One that has shaped who we are and who we're becoming. So no matter your journey, these po past four years have made us stronger, more capable, and more compassionate. We've learned how to support each other, and most importantly, we've learned how to show up. If there's one piece of advice I could give, it's exactly that. Show up. Take the chances in front of you because we often regret the ones we didn't take more than the ones we did. Freshman year, I joined cross country where coach Sarah and Ross somehow made running enjoyable. I remember taking off our neon jackets, lining up at races, and watching classmates like Vorn Flagstead and Mia Diosnney fly past everyone, even as freshmen. Not long after that, I
016tried out for the soccer team, starting my freshman year with a state title against Diamond in overtime. I still remember Briana Bailey and Addison Gosser connecting for that game tying goal. And although the soccer season isn't over yet, I'm hoping we can bring home a third state title in four years. Last fall, I decided to try flag football. I went in not knowing what to expect, but it quickly became one of my favorite parts of high school. From candy salads on bus rides to handstands at practice, it was never just about the game. It was about the people. Led by quarterback Jillian Preston, who is now committed to play collegiately, we finished the season as state champions. And of course, student government. I've been a part of it for four years now and is one
017of the best decisions I made. It gave me a chance to lead, to create meaningful moments, and to really get to know the people around me. From planning prom with Habstad to three repeating in SOB boss where Danica, Rio, and Meadow dominated the food relay to going undefeated in homecoming floats, I've seen just how much effort goes into the moments we often take for granted. How important it is to simply show up. With that being said, I want to recognize Miss Cooper. I've watched her work tirelessly for the South community, even before she became the student government teacher. She has dedicated countless hours to making school more than just time spent in the classroom. She shows up even when it's not expected and that's what leadership is about. So for all of these reasons and
018more, we owe her a huge and sincere thank you. [applause] Even if you weren't a part of these activities, you might have still seen me around playing music at football games with Mr. age, running National Honor Society meetings where Laya, Kenny, and Logan always stepped up to volunteer, or watching the cast of Descendants absolutely nail the spring play. Maybe it was at a bowling meet taking yearbook photos of Sharon Cho as she led another South victory, or carrying boxes of pom poms down the stairs getting ready to cheer on South Hockey as they finished their undefeated season with a state title. Or maybe it was cleaning up those same pom poms after the basketball state final because we definitely can make a mess. Because of all of these experiences, I know I made the most
019of my time in high school. And as we move forward, I challenge each of you to do the same. Because the truth is, you can't take the opportunities you never show up for. Recently, when I was rejected from my dream school, I felt defeated. I felt like all that work had led to nothing. But someone once told me, "Doors close that you can rock into the room you're meant to be in." So, I kept going. A week later, I was given the opportunity to try out for a college team. And shortly after, I committed to play collegiate soccer at Colorado School of Mines. Ironically, it ended up fitting me better than any school ever had. The only reason I had that opportunity, the only reason I was ready for it was because of all the
020work that I thought had gone to waste. And while my effort helped open those doors, the people around me are the reason they were there in the first place. Thank you to my dad for being my coach in every sense of the word, for always betting on me, and for encouraging me to set big goals like becoming validictorian as we drove home from soccer practice in the sixth grade. Thank you to my mom for being my role model, for doing so much without ever asking for recognition, for putting up with my procrastination, and for always being my biggest fan. And thank you to my sister Liv, my best friend who will probably steal everything in my room when I leave and who I will miss the most. Thank you for the sunsets, the long rants,
021and the endless supply of Instagram reels that I haven't watched yet. [snorts] And finally, thank you to my teachers, my friends, my teammates, my coaches, and my very large and very loud family for supporting me through this chapter of my life. As we leave here today, my hope is simple. that we show up. Show up for the big moments and the small ones. Show up even when it's comfortable, even when it's unsure. Show up for the people around you. And most importantly, show up for yourself. Because one day, these moments will be the memories we look back on. So take a deep breath, be proud of how far you've come, and be excited for how far you're about to go. Congratulations, class of 2026. We did it. [applause] Thank you, Addie. I would now like
022to introduce our next speaker, Hillary Hansen. Hillary was chosen by her class to speak today. After graduating, Hillary plans to attend Pace University in their honors program in New York City to study political science. She then plans to go to law school. Please welcome Hillary to the stage. [applause] Throughout high school, for each speech I've been assigned, I've done something out of the ordinary. Dressed up as Batman, performed a rap, played the harmonica, so on and so forth. And for this speech, I wanted to continue that trend. And yet, dressing up as Batman somehow felt inappropriate. But I found myself thinking back to my freshman year when Miss Watson was one of the speakers at graduation. I had spent almost every day of that year eating lunch in her room and hanging out with her
023after school and so we had become quite close. Nearing graduation, she shared a draft of her speech with me. And my response was that it was very graduation speechy. Not bad, just kind of basic. She took that response in stride and rewrote her speech into a poem. On the day of graduation, which also happened to be my brother's graduation, I was in the audience and heard her recite the poem. It was beautiful. I was so inspired and that inspiration has stayed with me until today. So to Miss Watson, thank you for inspiring me day in and day out for the last four years. Because of her, I've written a poem for you all. Good afternoon, everyone. I'm Hillilary Hansen, and wow, what a moment this is to stand at the edge of a life just
024begun and reflect on the life that was his or hers or theirs or ours as a whole. For we all share this chapter's end at the start of a story unwritten yet with countless blank pages ahead. But standing right here in cap and in gown, feeling as though I may cry, there's one thing stronger than nerves or jokes. That's gratitude that will never die. A feeling that hums in my chest so loud. I'm sure you can feel it, too. For none of us made it here alone. This moment belongs to a crew. I'm grateful first to my family, dear. my mom and dad through it all. Who answered my calls, who studied my storms, who caught me each time I would fall. To my older brother who paved some roads and showed me what could
025be done. Who taught me how to try new things and keep life fresh and fun. And friends, oh friends, how I love you so through laughter and chaos alike. through late night talks and shared inside jokes and group chats endlessly alike. And yet my biggest thanks are carefully saved for the unsung heroes of life. The people who time and time again are the ones forced to deal with strife. Because above all else, if we're being honest, if we trace where our thanks belong, it leads to the teachers who guided us here, who pushed us to grow strong. The ones who stayed late, who explained again and again, who cared when we didn't show, who saw our potential before we did and refused to let it go. They stood at the front with a patience rare
026through questions both big and small through blank eyed stairs and last minute work and emails sent through it all. They balanced a hundred young minds at once yet still made each student feel seen turning great confusion to stunning confidence in ways both subtle and keen. They noticed the quiet, uplifted the lost, and challenged the ones who could soar. They opened up doors we didn't know existed. And then they unlocked a few more. And long after tests and assignments fade and grades lose their weight and sting. It's their belief in us we will carry on more than any one lesson could bring. So you must remember beyond today as we scatter and each take our roads that schools are the places where futures are shaped and quiet potentials are swed. Our teachers, our students, the halls
027we have known, they're worthy of time and of care, of funding, of focus, of voices that fight to make sure they're protected and fair. Teachers have taught us more than just facts or formulas neatly aligned. They taught us how to question, to think, to challenge the world with our minds, how to act with purpose, to argue with grace, to speak and listen with care, to look at a problem from every angle and find the meaning there. So now, as we stand at the brink of what's next, with our future spread wide ahead, I find myself drifting back through the years to the paths that we've all just tread. Four years of moments, some sharp, some sweet, some messy, uncertain, and strange. Four years of growing into ourselves, of shifting, evolving, and change. We came in
028unsure, some quiet, some loud, all lost in a crowd so vast. And somehow we leave with a clearer sense of the selves we've built from the past. Through tests and triumphs, through failure and fear, through friendships that shaped who we are. We've each been writing our own small stories, and now we're raising the bar. There were days we were tired. Days we were done. Days we questioned the point of it all. Days when the future felt distant and blurred like a voice too faint to call. But still we showed up. Still we pushed through. Still we found ways to persist. And here we are now living proof of the strength that lies in our midst. So, what do we carry from here to there, from the classroom to whatever comes next? Is it formulas, dates,
029vocabulary lists? Or is it something more deeply complex? I'd argue it's more. It's the way that we think, the questions we've learned how to ask, the courage to face the unknown ahead, to rise to whatever the task. It's knowing we're shaped by the people we've met, the lessons we didn't expect, failures that stung, the victories won, the moments that forced us to reflect. It's knowing we're ready. Not perfectly so, but ready enough to begin to step into futures uncertain and vast and trust in our strength within. So, here's to the teachers who lit the path, to the families who helped us stand, to the friends who walked every step of the way, side by side, hand in hand. And here's to ourselves for the work that we've done, for the growth we can finally see,
030for becoming the people we are today, and the people were destined to be. So, I'll end this speech, as all good ones should, with advice both tried and true. The future is unwritten. The pages are blank. But the pen that belongs to you. [applause] Thank you, Hillary. Now, please join me in welcoming senior Kira Moore performing I'll always remember you by Andrew Green and Maria Brown Gallenburg. [music] >> [music] [music] >> And it's so hard to [music and singing] say goodbye. But yesterday's gone. We got to keep moving on. I'm so thankful for the moment. So glad I got to know you. The times that we've had, I'll keep like a photograph. I'll hold you in my heart forever. I'll always remember you. [singing] N [singing] another chapter [music] in the book. Can't go back
031or you can [singing] look. There we are on every page. Memories I'll always say. Up ahead only open [singing] doors. Who knows what we're heading towards. I wish you love. [singing] I wish you luck [music] for you. The world just opens up. And it's so hard to [singing] say goodbye. But yesterday's gone. [music] We got to keep [singing] moving on. I'm so thankful for a moment. So glad I got to know you. The times that we've had, I'll keep like a [singing] photograph. I'll hold you in my heart forever. I'll always [singing] remember you. Every day that we've had, all [singing] the good, all the bad. I'll keep them here inside. All the times that we shared, every place, everywhere. You touched my life. [singing] Yeah. One day we'll look back, we'll smile, and we'll
032laugh. But right now, [singing] we just cry. Cuz it's so hard to say goodbye. [music and singing] We got to keep moving on. I'm so thankful for the moment. So glad I got to know you. I'll keep like a boat of grass. I'll hold you in my heart forever. I'll always remember [singing] [music] you. I'll remember. [singing] Yeah. >> [screaming] >> Oh, remember [singing] you. [applause] Thank you, Kira. The class of 2026 chose South English teacher and girls basketball coach Larry Wilson to be today's keynote speaker. Larry Wilson was born and raised in Chicagoland area. He went to Northern Illinois's University for a year before enlisting in the army as a mechanic. After his time in the army, he finished his undergraduates degree at the University of Washington. He earned a master's degree in teaching
033at UAA and after graduating he taught at East High for 15 years before moving to South High in 2022. [applause] Thank you. When I was told that I was going to be delivering this speech after my panic attack, I thought about the words of my English teacher, Mrs. Kohler. She said, "Larry, you can't just write raps all the time." That single statement forced me to write a large number of short stories that summer, and some of them were almost good. I only bring this up to illustrate the power of language. So today I wanted to share some of the words that have moved me over the years. One, do not settle for letting these waves settle and for the dust to collect in your veins. This is for you. This is for you. Make sure
034by the time the fisherman returns, you are gone. Anise mojani. In the years to come, one thing is certain for you all. You've got to push forward. You have to grow. That might be in terms of education. It might be in terms of the relationships and how you handle them. It might be in terms of how you treat yourself. It might mean that you choose to do the right thing instead of following others. Be you. Two, love was always the best hiding place. Tony Morrison. When things in life become difficult, when you become frustrated, when you feel like you can't catch a break, take solace in the friends and family that you love. Take comfort in the hobbies and activities that you love. Take the time to love yourself. Love is truly the most powerful
035concept on earth. Harness it. Three. It eluded us then, but that's no matter. Tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther, and one fine morning. So we beat on boats against the current, born back ceaselessly into the past. Fcott Fitzgerald. Don't let hope fly away. Its feathers were meant to keep you warm, not earn travel miles. Don't let disappointments or lack of success destroy that light that exists inside of you. This also applies to how we treat others. Don't let your experiences stop you from being kind. It's not easy, but keep on paddling. Four, I must not fear. Fear is the mind killer. Fear is the little death that brings total obliteration. I will face my fear. I will permit it to pass over me and through me. And when it has gone
036past, I will turn the inner eye to see its path. And where the fear has gone, there will be nothing. Only I will remain. Frank Herbert. Don't make decisions based on your fear of the unknown. We need to be comfortable being uncomfortable. True strength is displayed by being afraid but summoning the courage to face that fear. In translation, shoot your shot. Five. In the midst of hate, I found there was within me an invincible love. In the midst of tears, I found there was within me an invincible smile. In the midst of chaos, I found there was within me an invincible calm. I realized through it all that in the midst of winter, I found there was within me an invincible summer. And that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard
037the world pushes against me, within me there's something stronger, something better pushing right back. Albert Kimmoon. We are stronger than we know. It is when we are put to the test that we find out how magnificent we can be. Ask for help when you need it, but know that everything you need exists inside of you. Negativity seemingly lurks all around us, but when we choose to accept and appreciate our own light, that's winning. Six. The bird that would soar above the level plane of tradition and prejudice must have strong wings. Kopan, our world can be a contemptuous place. It is up to us to rise above hatred and fear. But class of 2026, I challenge you all who are the future to be citizens that don't s subscribe to the polarizing dogma that is thrown
038in your face every day. More and more our culture wants to pin us into the tidy categories to set us loose into either social media cage matches or the depression created by fictitious reality. Ask yourself, who do you want to be? What kind of world do you want to live in? After working with a large number of you since I arrived at South, I'm confident that you will perpetuate the kind of pro progressive energy that will keep us soaring. The bird is in your hands. Congratulations, class of 2026. I just gave you homework. [applause] Thank you, Mr. Wilson. Now, I'd like to give the microphone to Carly Strler, South Student Body President. Carly plans to further her education this fall at Boise State University, where she will be pursuing a degree in nursing. Later, she
039hopes to become a nurse practitioner and one day a flight nurse. Carly. [applause] [cheering] Alrighty. Might get a little emotional up here. >> [laughter] >> Hello, my name is Carly Shler. Whether you know me as the student body president, a friend, a peer, or the girl yelling at Ding in the hallway telling you to go to the football game that night, I'd like to welcome you to the 2026 South Graduation. My days at South didn't just start my freshman year. They started the day I was born. For those of you who don't know, my mom, Kirsten, came to South as the vice principal and then principal from 2008 to 2017. So, growing up, I was immersed in the Southside community. I saw from an early age what a strong connected community looks like. Whether I
040was laying on her couch sick, which by the way is the same couch that still sits out sits outside Miss Valentine's office today, or noticing the tape marks in Nurse Susie's office from when I would come in to get measured, or even rolling down the ramps in an office chair during inservice. No matter what, I was always at South. And even as a kid, I could feel that this place was more than just a school. It was a community. A community that was built where people knew each other, showed up for each other, and cared. So when I walked in freshman year, I expected to feel the same thing. But it wasn't. We all came in after COVID during a time when things felt quieter, a little bit more disconnected. I didn't know anyone coming
041here from HU, and the once booming community that I had remembered had faded. But the biggest thing I've learned over the past four years is that community doesn't just exist. It doesn't just happen or survive on its own. It takes people. It takes effort. It takes showing up time and time again. Even when it's easier not to. You have to build it. And that's exactly what this class did. We were able to come in our freshman year after high and make high school what we wanted it to be. From winning championships in football, flag football, cross-country running, hockey, and girls and boys cross-country skiing, the Anchorage community knew that our South community was booming. During my time at South, whether I was playing softball, managing football or hockey, or doing anything at all for student
042government, I wanted to be involved. But most importantly, I wanted others to be involved. Through spirit weeks, packed student sections, clubs, music, sports, late nights, early mornings, and everyday moments in the hallways, we brought energy back into the school. It was friends who became family. The teachers who showed up for us day in and day out, always putting smiles on our faces, and the classmates who even made boring days fun. Together, we didn't just attend South, we shaped it. Everyone here played a key role in building a community you could be proud of. Now, as we sit here at graduation, we're about to step into something new. New schools, new cities, new opportunities, and most importantly, new challenges. The biggest thing I'd like everyone to take away from the speech is that community isn't a
043place. It's not a building, a school, or even a town. Community is something that you carry with you, something that you have to invest in everywhere you go. So wherever your next adventure takes you, whether it's college, work, traveling, or something totally out of the blue, don't wait for community to find you. Be the person who reaches out, includes everyone, makes people feel seen and appreciated, and be the person who creates your community. Because the truth is, the world needs more communities like the one we built here. And that starts with all of us sitting here today. Class of 2026, this community will always be a part of us. and in a way we'll always be a part of it. From the six state championships we won this year to being four-time float champions, threetime
044So champions, our class will forever be remembered. Before I finish, I want to take a moment to thank the people who helped me get here. I want to thank my family for always supporting me, even when I take on more than I probably should. To my dad, Jed, thank you for opening up the shop for so many school events and late night hangouts, but more importantly, for being the person who keeps me grounded when life feels overwhelming. I don't say it enough, but I truly don't know what I'd do without you. To my mom, Kirsten, thank you for always pushing me to be my best while also reminding me who I am. You've shown me what it means to be independent, kind, and strong, and I'll carry those qualities with me wherever I go. To
045Mrs. Mrs. Habstad, thank you for your constant dedication and for helping me discover a passion for student government that has shaped me so much of who I am today. To nurse Susie, being your TA these past two years has meant more to me than I can fully put into words. Thank you for all the conversations, the laughter, and for always being someone I could count on. To coach Lou, thank you for welcoming me into the football community and giving me some of the most meaningful and unforgettable memories of my high school experience. Can't say it. can't believe I'm saying it, but I'm going to miss getting yelled at across the field. Um, I want to thank Miss Cooper for truly doing anything that was asked of her, for always supporting the craziest ideas and somehow
046always pulling them off. You have been my rock within the school, and I truly could not help build this community without you. Lastly, I want to thank everyone sitting before me. To all my friends and peers, these high school memories will be something I cherish. And our community wouldn't be what it is without all of you sitting here today. As I move forward into my next chapter, I know I'm not going alone. I'm carrying the lessons, the memories, and the sense of community that all of you help build within me. And I know that every single one of us is doing the same. So, as we all go our separate ways, remember that the community we built here doesn't end today. It grows with us. It lives in how we treat people, how we show
047up, and how we choose to build connections wherever we go. So, as we all move forward, let's carry a piece of South with us and leave a piece of ourselves in every new community we help build along the way. Thank you, class of 2026. We freaking did it. Congratulations. [applause] >> [cheering] >> Thank you, Carly. Now, I would like to welcome South High's Combined Choir, directed by South's choir teacher, Rebecca Nelson, performing Going the Distance and Better Together, featuring seniors Alyssa RLE and Garrett Roose. I love you. I love you. I have [singing] dreamed of a far off place where a great warm welcome [singing] will be waiting for me where the crowds [singing] will cheer [music] when they see my face and a voice keeps saying [singing] I'll be there [singing and music] [music]
048if I [singing] can I know every [singing] [music] when I go [singing] the distance [music] will be right where I belong. [music] down an unknown [singing and music] road to embrace my fate. [music] Though that road [singing] may wonder, it will lead me to you. And a thousand [singing and music] years would be worth the wait. It might take a lifetime, but somehow I'll see [singing and music] it through. I won't look back. I can [singing] go the distance [music] and I'll stay on track. No, I [singing] won't accept defeat. [music] It's an uphill slow, but I won't [singing] lose hope [music] till I go the distance. And [singing and music] my journey is complete [music] [singing] because we're better together, stronger side by side. This is our [singing] moment. It's [music] our time. So
049we're different whatever everyone can shine. This is the [singing] moment of our lives. Cuz we're better together cuz we're all in this [singing] together. Once we know that we are we're all stars and we [singing] see that we are stronger. All of us together only makes us better. All of us together like a shooting [singing] star. [music] I can go the distance. I will [singing] search the world. I will face it. I don't care how far. [singing] I can go [music] the distance till I find my future waiting right where I [singing] belong. [music] I belong. [music] [cheering] >> [applause] >> Thank you choir. Before we move forward with graduation, we would write like to recognize our retiree. Here's Dr. Alman to send her off. In addition to our graduating seniors, today we also bid
050farewell to a retiring teacher who has made a lasting impact on our graduates, our school, and our community ever since South opened. When I call her name, please stand and be recognized. Today, we are recognizing the retirement of our world language chair and German teacher, Dr. Elizabeth Dick. >> [cheering] [applause] >> She is retiring after 33 years as an educator and 27 of those years spent in the Anchorage School District. She was a member of South's founding staff in the fall of 2004 and Fraud Dick has spent the last 22 years contributing to the community which you've heard about today. She contin continues with her work organizing South's gap exchange to Germany for the past 20 years and that is what she feels to be her most meaningful contribution to students lives. She has encouraged
051students to grow as travelers immersed in language and culture during time abroad rather than simply visiting as tourists. Although she's retiring from teaching, Brow Dick plans to volunteer at South next year and support the 2027 GAP exchange trip. She will also continue working in the private sector and eventually plans to relocate to Washington State to be closer to her family. She will miss her colleagues and her students. Please give Dr. Elizabeth Dick a round of applause on her well-deserved retirement. [applause] And this is late breaking news but not part of the program but we would also like uh Kristen Doll to stand up. I don't have a big biography but congratulations. She has recently decided to also retire from our world language department and has been a Spanish teacher from the very beginning. Congratulations to
052Kristen as well. [applause] And we're just going to try to hold on to the rest. Okay, so final stretch graduates. Before I present you to the superintendent and to board member Mcdana and before you walk across the stage, receive your diploma and begin to celebrate, I wanted to tell you a story which, as it turns out, I think is thematically consistent with what all the speakers have said today. So here we go. I grew up in a very small town between two large rivers. So my life was literally framed by water. two of the borders of the county were rivers. Because of that, as you might imagine, my parents wanted my brother and I to be exceptionally strong swimmers. So, when I was just four years old, they signed me up for my very first
053swim lesson. I'm sure you've all had one or a similar experience that I'm about to describe. I can still remember the little bitty me, the smell of chlorine in that locker room, the damp cool tile beneath my feet, and that thick humid air that you always get in an indoor pool. And I also remember at that moment just how anxious and scared I was. little old me in a giant pool and really only people staring into the back of my head waiting for me to take the step toward the pool or to retreat into the locker room and to never look back. So, as I exited that locker room, my mind was racing. I was unsure. It didn't feel safe. Yet, in my four-year-old mind, which I think turns out to be really rational, I
054really just didn't want to disappoint my parents, who were probably sitting there watching me to see what I would do. So, I stood in front of those aluminum bleachers, brave little four-year-old me, only my dad's hand on my shoulder, and I decided to take one step toward the pool. And it might be one of the hardest steps I've ever taken. I have a fairly clear memory of it, even though that was over 40 years ago. So, as I did, I looked across the pool at the swim instructors who were bobbing in the ladder, having fun. They were probably kids your age, just teaching swimming lessons at the university. And I f focused on one of those large foam mats that they floated out in the middle of the pool to make you feel safe. But
055I wasn't feeling the safety of that foam mat at that moment. And eventually, I took one more step and one more step yet. And I eventually walked all the way across that pool deck and reached the ladder. And then I got through that lesson. It probably wasn't easy. I don't have a clear memory. Maybe I've repressed that part of it. But I made it through all those swim lessons. And as I did, I grew more confident. And by the time I was in elementary school, I was on a swim team. And actually, by the time I was your age, my brother and I were working summer jobs in oppressive heat. And so it was our tradition after work many many days during the week to pull my dad's boat to the Ohio River to basically
056point our boat upstream and to basically anchor on a bank where there was a 100-year-old oak tree. And if you can imagine a 100-y old oak tree with a barge rope strung on the back of it, you could climb all the way up the top of this 45 degree oak tree and you could swing yourself all the way out across the river. You were probably 30 feet off the water and have a blast. And so in that short time, what was a really daunting experience facing the pool deck for the first time as a four-year-old turned into something that I actually loved, that I enjoyed doing that provide relief after a long day of work. And here's where this applies to you. I really think you're about to go through the same exact unsure but
057life-changing experience because soon you will also be stepping on your own pool decks. Whatever those decks are going to look like, you will all face your own version of uncertainty and a sense of newness that you just can't place. You will get to make a choice just like I did. And I hope that when that time comes, you will be confident enough to face the unknown, to face that fear. And at that moment, I encourage you to take one step forward. And then I hope after that, you will take the next step forward because you never know. And as many of our speakers have said today, where one step may make the difference of a lifetime. You just don't know. So, it's really, really important to take that step. And so hopefully as you exit
058here today and you take your first step out the door as graduates of South High School, you'll grow confident and more independent and you will consistently make yourself ready for the next major challenge in your life. And the big secret is they just keep coming no matter how many of them you surmount. So I want to wish you well in that endeavor just like we all have. And now we are going to take your first official step of graduation. So will the members of the South Anchorage High School class of 2026 please rise. [applause] Dr. Bryant, the records have been examined and I verify that the students seated before you have met the credit requirements for graduation from the Anchorage School District. It is my pleasure to present to you the South Anchorage class of
0592026. [applause] On behalf of the Anchorage School District Administration, it is my sincere pleasure to accept this graduating class. Schoolboard Representative Mcdana, I present to you the South Anchorage High School class of 2026. Parents, family members, friends, on behalf of the Anchorage School District School Board, we accept the graduating class of 2026 for South Anchorage High School. Congratulations. [applause] All right, graduates, you can be seated one more time. Before we begin roll call, I would like to request that we respect each member of the class of 2026, especially as their name is called and their and their accomplishment, not using over noise makers. A little noise today may not be a bad thing. It's been a little sedate so far, but just make sure we can hear each student's name read so that they can
060be recognized. It is an important moment for our students and their families and we want to make sure each of them is clearly acknowledged. We thank you in advance for that request and we will as young ladies make their way across the front of the stage give them a shout out for the speeches. They've done a good job today. [applause] And with that we will begin roll call. Here we go. That's okay. I got you. Addison Bailey, Suma Cumlad, valadictorian. [cheering] [applause] Hillary Hansen, Magna Cumla, Carly Strupler, [cheering] Samantha Moore, Salad Saludatoran, Suna Cumlad, Seal of Biiteracy, German. Edward Alexander, >> Owen Atkins, Cameron Aldrich, Cumla, Emily Anderson, Magna Cumlad, Mia Anderson, Terrell Anderson, Reed Armstrong, Magna Cumlad, Seal of Biiteracy, Spanish. Campbell Aerosmith, [cheering] Nathan Arthur, Seal of Biteracy, German Aiden Ashton, >> Brianna
061Bailey, [cheering] Bronwin Bailey, Sumu Cumlad, Nathan Bailey, Zayen Bales, Braden Barker, Jack Barker, [cheering] >> Isabella Barto, Sloan Ba, Elodie Bennett, Suma Cumlad, Sila Biteracy, German [cheering] Baylor Berg, Magna Cumlad, your Michael Berky, Connor Being Elelliana Bur Suma Cumlad, [cheering] >> Maya Blackwell Cumla Hayden Blair Caleb Bonan [cheering] Allison Bochell Sumo Cumlad Seal of Biiteracy Spanish, [cheering] Nick Boyd, Sumukum Laad, seal of by literacy, French, Ali Bradshaw, Rio brought Cumla, Naomi Bridewell, >> London Bryley, Bella, Bristol, Adrina Brown, Cumlaude, Logan Brown, Owen Brown, >> Cody Bruns, >> McKenzie Bryant, Brick Berzinski, [cheering] >> Zachary Bus, Cumlaude, [cheering] Lana Buyers, Cumlaude, Alyssa Cardano, Llaya Carson, Cumlad, Meto Carr, >> [cheering] >> Charlie Carol Magna Cumlad, Troy Cart, Maya Serta, Sage Cha, [screaming and cheering] Madison Chadoff, Magnaum Lai, Sharon Cho, Magnaumloud, Caris Chong, Madison Claire, [screaming]
062Alice Clearary, Allison Coffee, [cheering] Aaron Colry, Branson Coleman, Magna Cumlad, [cheering] >> Kaden Coleman, Sama Cumlaude, [applause] Sydney Connor Cumlad, >> Ricardo Kosio, Lillian Koy, Samakum Laad, >> [cheering] >> Mia Cohane, >> Finnegan Damato, [cheering] Lindsay Dalstrom, Magna Cumla, Addison Darling, [cheering] Lean Davis, Cumla with the seal of biiteracy in German, Sydney Davis, [cheering] Danica Dinsmore, Levi Doganos, Landon Drum with Kum Laude and a seal of biiteracy in German. Kinsey Dufour Jaden Dumlau, Isabelle Dupri, Elizabeth Edge with Magnaum LA, Kingston Esters, [screaming] Angelova Fafidi, [cheering] Xander Fairclaw, Caitlyn Farmer, Daniel Fner, Magna Cumlad, McKenzie Fiser, Sadie Flickinger, [screaming] >> Aubrey Forth, [cheering] Kayen France Stifler, >> Oliver Freeman with Magnaum Louden, Austin French, [cheering] Mariah Fuller, [screaming] >> Kenneth Fussy, Sumakumla, >> [screaming and cheering] >> Addison Gosser Magnaum Laud [cheering] >> Logan Goce Sumakum
063Laad with the seal of biiteracy in German Calvin Gilbert. Azeriah Gleason, Magnaum La, [screaming] [cheering] Martin Gleason, Mia Glorioso, Marlene Ga with seal of bi literacy in Spanish and English, a foreign exchange student from Germany. >> Colin Graer >> [cheering] >> Anna Green, [cheering] >> James Greenwood, >> Charlotte Griffith, Magnaumlad, Seal of Biteracy, Spanish, Carter Gwen, Katana Guest, Isabella Gunther Chavez, Seal of Biiteracy, Spanish. [cheering] Alexander Gustafson Jada Hall Magnaumlad Violet Hall Homeman Magnan Kumlad's seal of biiteracy Spanish >> Amaya Hammet Kumlad Marcus Hannah Tanner Hansen, [cheering] Jocelyn Hardy, >> Ulle Harop, >> Jasmine Lelay Harris, Owen Hearth, >> Anukica Hosner, >> Anuka ICA Howner, Suma Kumlad. [screaming] [cheering] >> Carson Hos Kumlad, [cheering] Benjamin Heinrich, Seal of Biiteracy, Spanish, [cheering] Samuel Heinrich, Christopher Hemstreet, Leila Henderson, Kumladi, Sioiteracy, Spanish Aiden Hedigan, Magnaumlad, [cheering] Jackson
064Henry. [cheering] Congratulations, Anna Hill. [screaming] Isabelle Hines, seal of biiteracy, German Ruffus Hins, [cheering] Garrett Hobbins, Stella Holdridge, [cheering] Payton Holland, Sydney Ney Hooker, [cheering] Emma Hornberger, Kumlad, Logan Hulquist, [cheering] this book, Denali Herd, Odin Hurst, [cheering] Kira James, Magnaum Lad, Isabelle Jipping, Magnaum Llad, Joseph Fien Jipping, Sumakum Lady, Seal of Biiteracy, Spanish. Parker Johnson, Sumakum Lady, Seal of Biiteracy, German. [cheering] Julian Jones, Tobin Jones, [cheering] Christina Kagger, [cheering] Braden Candas, [cheering] Veronica Kester, Seal of Bitacy Chairman, [cheering] Ellie Cleven, Magna Kumlad [cheering] is >> Indy KT [cheering] Asher Koch [screaming] Mason Corman Alexa Carter Suma Kumlad Lewis Crocos Kumlad today. Good job. Tegan Cooper, [cheering] Alisandra Kusro, Suma Kumlad, Sailor Keifin, [cheering] John S. Lancha, Suma Cumlad, Logan J. Lamson [cheering] Tikkin R. Langland Magnaum LA seal of biiteracy Spanish Henry D. Lance [cheering
065and applause] Key Larson Shane M. Leathers Dimmitri Lee Cumlude [cheering] Cody R Lindström [cheering] Mason J. Lorett [cheering] Genevieve I Loren Cumlad Harlon G Loso [screaming] Triton M. Lule Daniel T. Lun Suma cumlaude Luca P. Marathani Morgan N. Mariscll Adele L. Matthews [cheering] Robert V. McCabe cumlude [cheering] Alexia R. McCarter Magna Cumlude sealed by literacy Spanish Clayton R. Maguire [cheering] Ellie N. McKenna Witchman Magnaum La Maisha Mijaban foreign exchange student from Bangladesh [cheering] Laya E Mor Magna Cumla [cheering] Isabella S Mendoza cumlude Quinn R. Matroken [cheering] >> Aiden J. Michaelelsson [cheering] Benson D. Micheller [cheering] Miley G. Monahan [cheering] Kira M. Moore sumakum laad seal of bi literacy Spanish Lucia E. Montano [cheering] Jada A. Morris Sumakum Laad Seal of Biiteracy Spanish Ban L Moriceet [cheering] >> James L. Moser [cheering] Brandon C. Moa Jeremy
066S. Narris McKinley A. Nash cumlude [screaming] [cheering] Kyle W. Nyak [cheering] Lucas N. Nakshu Arie R. Nedwick [cheering] Preston A. Nerland Anthony M. Newman [cheering] Naomi O and Jooku Sumakum Laad Seal of Biiteracy Spanish Dawson J. Narin Sumakum Laad Seal of Biiteracy Spanish Nash H. Norwood [cheering] Men S. Nostein Henry G. Olsen Suma Cumlaude Seal of Biiteracy German Isabella A. Ortiz Cruz [cheering] Edward Palumbi Ray Allen N Penomora Magnaum Laad Seal of Biiteracy German Elias JT Perez [screaming] >> Corbin J Ptor Seal of biiteracy Spanish Connor R. Peterson cumlaude Hayden K. Patron. [cheering] >> I was going to say you can switch over there. >> Dimmitri am Petrov. Janessa Fonisai, Magna Kumlad. Thank you, Jasmine Phelps. Okay, going to give you a hug later. Audrey M. Phillips, Jace David Fonang, [cheering] Andrea Selin, Panetta, [screaming]
067>> [cheering] >> Bowden K. Porter Kyler A. Porter Megan E. Porter Kumlad [cheering] Morgan A. Powell. >> Should I Should I announce it? Jillian L. Preston. [cheering] James C. Proszman Isaac L. Purrington. >> Thank you Chanel Chanel S. Raider Salvador V. Wrangle [cheering] Loen S. Reckle Kumlad Seal of Biit Biiteracy in French. Kai J. Reed Sumokum lad you don't have a card I can't read your name Kyrie Reed [cheering] Cadence G Rogers Maria Rodriguez Cortez Deal of Bitsy Spanish do the rest of them too >> Iris M Roig [cheering] Taylor L Robertson >> [cheering] >> Okay. Owen Riff should [cheering] never have said his name. Alyssa L. Ryel. Eden G. Rhodess. Kuman. What is your name? [cheering] >> Na. What? >> Na Reynolds. There you are. Sorry. Gamble R. Reinart. >> That's okay. >> Lucas
068F. Rogers. [cheering] >> Good job, Holly. Holly S. C. Rognes. Sumo Cummrade. Seal of Biiteracy in Spanish. Garrett A. Roose. Von M. Rosenberger. Good job, Kylie. Kylie M. Roth Iris A. Rothbar Isaac S. Rue [cheering] Cedar A. Ruckle Magna Kumlad [cheering] Margaret C. Runty Magnaumlad and Seal of Biiteracy in Spanish. Abina and Russo Kumlady [cheering] [screaming] Noah W. Sari [cheering] Deron Sabunan Sumokum and seal of piliteracy in Armenian. [cheering] Oliver Sagenic Lorenzo Miles Rang Christian A. Sanchez AOA Elizabeth Santana Cordona Seal of Biiteracy in Spanish. Of course you didn't. Ronan Schmidt. [cheering] Okay. What was it? Schultz. Daniel Schultz. >> Ryden Scott. Yep. >> Ryden J. Scott. Kumlad. >> I knew Michael J. Siver. Kumlad [cheering and applause] Nat Sakasone [cheering] Jay J. Singleton [screaming] Cyrus M. Smith, [cheering] Vivian B. Snodgass, [screaming] Lena. So,
069>> how are [cheering] you? LOGAN [screaming] R. STARTLE, GRAYSON [screaming] M. STANIC KUMAN CARLY A. STEWART [screaming] NESS LTO STOCK MAGNAUM LAUDY Seal of Bi Literacy Spanish Samantha A. STARTER SAVANNAH F. STOUT, [cheering] Dara [screaming] E. Stone, Bryson T. Taylor, ZACHARY [screaming] M. TAYLOR, Carolyn M. TA, Maya [cheering] E. TURPAC, SUMA, KUMLAD, [screaming] [cheering] ALEXANDRA TISDALE, [screaming] Aean J. Torpy, Kum Lai, Seal of Biteracy Spanish, ISABELLA TORRES, VAREL BAGNAUM LAUDY, Seal of Biteracy Spanish, Victoria E. Tusper Ethan Entran Kum La LEAH M TRODER KUM Lowy [cheering] Jeda Dia P D T D T D T D T D T D T D T D T D T D Ter Solomon E Underwood [cheering] Sienna R Gavin L V Beerman Suma Lad A seal of by literacy Spanish. Taylor J. Basic [cheering] Frank H. WAGNER NICOLE
070V. WALKER JACE T. WALLACE France Ilia M. W [cheering] TYRONE BRANDON C WARD Broaddy D Wing Magna Kum Low Ellie R Welton Ellen J Whip Magna Kum Lai [cheering] RACHEL A. WHITE SUMA KUMLAD [screaming] RILEY L HOLIES SOPHIA MS W SUMA KUM LA [cheering] Harley R WILLARD [screaming] [cheering] Haley B Williams WILLIAM Cara [screaming] M Wolf ROWAN A WOOL JONATHAN RWOOD, [screaming] Brandon P. SONG, Joshua C. Jagger, Nicholas T. Omen, Brandon M. Yonker, [cheering] GRACE GAGE C. NEW York Magna Kum Lai Ember RS YOUNG [cheering] WYATT RUN [screaming] Alexander Shu [screaming] Elijah J. Zelmer kum laud Karina H. Zmer Kumlad seal of bi literacy Spanish [screaming] Zoe D Ziper Magna Kum La [cheering] Zachary Ballinger [cheering] I did tell them. [cheering] [screaming] >> I'll go first. You can try to see timing. [cheering] >> Oh
071yeah. [cheering] >> [cheering] [cheering] >> already lost it. This is so sad. >> [cheering] >> That's what I saw. All right. And now the final act of your graduation ceremony. Carly, Hillary, and Addie, please come to the front of the stage for the traditional turning of the tassel, which symbolizes your status as high school graduates. >> Before we do, say cheese. Let's do this. Okay, graduates, please rise. On the count of three, we will all move our tassels. >> One, two, three. >> CONGRATULATIONS. [screaming] [cheering] GUYS, >> CONGRATULATIONS. >> I have bobby pins in my hair. Congratulations. >> All right, there he is. >> You guys did a really good job. [cheering] >> Where'd my hat go? >> And as a brief Oh, I [cheering] have my mic. That's all right. We'll just let the
072melee take over.