001Hello. How you doing? You did good. Oh yeah, big boy. Did you? >> I don't think so. >> First and third. Sorry guys. Happy birthday. Give me a hand. Michael time this up. Ready? time. It's a very small Good morning. Good evening, superintendent sir, principal Frell, Mr. Osborne, esteemed members of the Carbon Area Board of Education, tonight's distinguished commencement speaker, Mrs. Chrissy Richards, faculty, staff, honored guests, proud parents, devoted family members, cherished friends, and most importantly, the Carbell Area High School graduating class of 2026. Welcome to this milestone occasion, our commencement ceremony held in honor of the outstanding young men and women seated before us. My name is Larry Gabriel, assistant principal, and I am privileged to serve as your master of ceremonies this evening. Before we begin, I would like to ask everyone to
002please take a moment to silence all cell phones and electronic devices. Additionally, this evening's commencement ceremony is a formal celebration of the accomplishments of the class of 2026. Out of respect for every graduate and family in attendance, we ask that applause this evening remain courteous and appropriate throughout the ceremony so that each graduate's name can clearly be heard as it's announced. To preserve the dignity and decorum of the special occasion, we respectfully request that guests refrain from shouting, whistling, air horns, and other loud outbursts during the presentation of diplomas. Your cooperation will help ensure that every graduate here receives the recognition that they have earned and that every family can fully enjoy this memorable event. We greatly appreciate your continued cooperation and support. This event would not be possible without the efforts of many behind
003the scenes. On behalf of our administration, I extend our sincere gratitude to the following individuals for their tireless dedication making tonight a memorable experience. Our superintendent, Mrs. S. Our principal, Mr. Frell. Our graduation marshals, Mr. Tom Marorrow and Mr. Joe Barasi. Our school counselors, Mrs. Megan Rogerio, Mrs. Carrie Warhola and Mrs. Gabe Pigeon. Par professional, Mrs. Carrie Burl. Our art teacher, Mrs. Janelle Phillips, our math teacher, Mrs. Gzanti for preparing the tickets and participating in her final graduation due to retirement. Miss McDermott and Miss Gabby Talico, our office staff of Michelle Caviston and Christy Coutura, as well as our entire administration, high school faculty and staff that you see stationed throughout campus here this evening. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Mr. Scott Mahalik, Mr. Jeremy Dumbroski, and Mr. Arturo Munos and our devoted
004maintenance department whose efforts have shaped the very environment that is surrounding us this evening. Most importantly to the parents, guardians, and caregivers. Thank you for raising this remarkable group of young adults. Your love, sacrifice, and guidance have shaped the class of 2026 into who they are today. You have every reason to be proud. And now it is with great joy that we turn our attention to the stars of this evening, the graduating class of 2026. At this time, I ask that everyone please rise and remain standing while our Carbondale Area Chamber singers perform the national anthem, followed by the pledge of allegiance and singing of our high school alma mater. Oh, say can you see by the dawn early light, what so proudly We held at the twilight last gleaming who brought stripes and bright
005stars through the perilous or the ramparts we watch were so gallently streaming and the rock is red. The bombs bursting in air gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. Oh, say does that star spangle B and wave or the land of the free and the home of the brave. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Please remain standing. In northeastn Pennsylvania, sheltered in our wondous stands our noble in the town of Carale. Tell the story of our glory. Sing our praises to the sky. H to the water. Carbonale area. Tonight we recognize two students who have exemplified the highest level of academic excellence throughout their high
006school careers. First, our saludiatoran. Will our saludiatoran please come forward at this time? It is my pleasure to introduce the saludiatoran of the Carbondeler class of 2026, Mr. William Murphy. William is the son of Tom and Mary Alice Murphy. Throughout his high school career, he has distinguished himself as an outstanding student, respected leader, and dedicated member of the Carbillary community. A scholar with a passion for excellence, William has been actively involved in numerous academic and extracurricular organizations. He serves as treasurer of both National Honor Society and the Future Business Leaders of America, demonstrating the trust and confidence that his peers and advisers place in his leadership and character. His commitment to learning extends across a wide range of interests through his participation in the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science, Student Council, Students Against Destructive Decisions,
007Science and Technology Club, Spanish Club, Physics Club, and president of the math club. Beyond the classroom, William has dedicated member of the varsity soccer team for three years, earning the honor of team captain through his leadership, work ethic, and commitment to his teammates. He's also a graduate of the prestigious Tomorrow's Leaders Today program, further reflecting his dedication to personal growth and community leadership. Williams academic achievements, intellectual curiosity, and unwavering determination, have earned him the distinction of the Saludiatoran of the class of 2026. Following graduation, he plans to attend Pennsylvania State University and pursue a degree in architectural engineering, where his analytical mind, creativity, and drive for excellence will undoubtedly serve him well. Ladies and gentlemen, please join him join me in welcoming and congratulating the saludiatoran of the Carbonary Class of 2026, Mr. William Murphy.
008Good evening fellow graduates, families, friends, board of education, administration, faculty, and staff. I would like to thank everyone for being here this evening and taking part in such a pivotal moment of all of our lives. Graduates, as we celebrate this milestone, don't forget to thank those who got who helped you get to where you are today. The people who supported, encouraged, and believed in you along the way. We don't say it enough, but those people really deserve to hear our gratitude. Personally, I would like to thank my sister for always keeping me grounded with their constant support and sense of humor, or should I say sarcasm, which somehow became one of my greatest sources of motivation. I'd also like to thank my parents for their unconditional love and encouragement through every stage of my life,
009from some pretty rough moments in kindergarten all the way to standing here on the stage today. Truly, without my mom and dad, I would not be anywhere close to the person I am today. When we were little, people always asked us the same question. What do you want to be when you grow up? Some of us said police officers, some of us said doctors or firefighters. Some probably changed their answers every single week. I mean, gosh, I wanted to be a bank robber back then. Thankfully, somewhere along the way, I traded that dream for another one. But the funny thing is, when we were kids, we thought growing up was something far away, something waiting for us in the future. And now, here we are. The truth is, there is no more when I grow
010up. We are grown up. Adulthood is no longer some distant idea waiting down the road. It starts the moment we we walk off the stage today. That could feel exciting. It could feel overwhelming. And for some of us, it probably feels uncertain. But maybe that uncertainty is not something to fear. Maybe it is proof that life is doing exactly what it is supposed to do, change. Because life is built on change. Our dreams change, our goals change, the people around us change, the world itself is constantly changing. And although change can sometimes feel uncomfortable, it is also what pushes us forward. It inspires growth, creates progress, and it challenges us to become more than what we once were. The future is not static. It's not sitting somewhere waiting for us to arrive. The future is
011what we build, one decision at a time. That is why one quote has always stood out to me. Gandhi once said, "The future depends on what you do today. As simple as that quote sounds, it carries so much meaning. Every choice we make matters. Every effort matters. The way we treat people matters. The risk we take, the work we put in, and the attitude we carry into life all shape the future we create for not only ourselves, but for others. And over the years, I've watched that grown happen in the people sitting around me on this very stage today. I've watched classmates overcome obstacles, discover talents, and become stronger versions of themselves. I've seen people step outside of their comfort zones, work through failures, and continue moving forward when life felt too difficult. Because one
012thing they never really told us when we were kids is that life is hard. No path is perfectly straight. There will be setbacks, disappointments, unexpected turns, and moments where we have absolutely no idea what comes next. There will be bumps, ups, downs, lefts, and rights. The world will always continue to change around us, and we will not always be able to control what happens ahead. And honestly, that is okay. Not everything in life comes with a perfect solution. Sometimes growth comes from learning how to adapt rather than learning how to control everything around us. But while there's so much we cannot control, there's one thing we always can control. The kind of people we choose to become. Victor Hugo once said, "Change your opinions. Keep to your principles. Change your leaves. Keep intact your roots."
013I think that quote perfectly describes what growing up really means. Like trees, we are meant to grow and change. Our our ideas evolve. Our perspectives expand. We gain new experiences, relationships, and dreams. No two trees grow exactly alike. And no two people will follow the exa ex the exact same path either. Every person on this stage has unique strengths, talents, and qualities that will shape a future completely their own. But even as trees changed, their roots remain strong. And in life, our roots are our principles. Kindness, honesty, integrity, compassion, perseverance, just to name a few. Those are the things that keep us grounded no matter how much the world changes around us. Those values are ensure are what ensure we use change not for selfishness, but for good. As I look around this stage today,
014I see future nurses, electricians, entrepreneurs, teachers, military personnel, mechanics, business owners, and leaders. But more importantly, I see the people who can make an impact in ways no one else can. I do not just see who my classmates are today. I see them as who they are becoming and what they will and what they will be. So, if there's one thing I hope everyone takes away from today, it is this. Do not fear change. Embrace it. The future is not waiting for us. It is being built by us every single day through our choices, our actions, and our character. And as the graduates of 2026 leave this stage today, let us build futures that are not only successful, but meaningful. Futures rooted in kindness, integrity, courage, and purpose. futures that reflect who we are and
015who we choose to become. Because change will shape our lives, but our character will shape the future. It is a true honor to introduce the valadictorian of the carbonary class of 2026. Will the validictorian please come forward? It is my distinct honor to introduce the valadictorian of the carbellary class of 2026, Mr. Matthew Sarosski. Matthew is the son of Sarah and Ronald Sarosski. Throughout his high school career, he has exemplified the very qualities that define a validictorian. Academic excellence, exceptional leadership, and a commitment to serving both his school and community. A highly accomplished student, Matthew has immersed himself in a wide variety of academic leadership and service organizations. He serves as the president of both the National Honor Society and Future Business Leaders of America, where his leadership and dedication have helped inspire his fellow
016students. His success in FBA extended beyond the state level, earning him the opportunity to compete on the national stage this past summer, a testament to his talent, hard work, and professionalism. Matthew's leadership extends throughout the school community as vice president of both the senior class and the student council while also serving as a president of the students against destructive decisions. His involvement further includes the math club, physics club, science and technology club, Spanish club, the Pennsylvania junior academy of science, and numerous other academic endeavors that reflect his passion for learning and personal growth. In addition to his academic achievements, Matthew has been an active participant in athletics in inclusive extracurricular programs. He has contributed to the soccer program as team captain and was a dedicated three-year member of the unified botchi team, demonstrating his commitment
017to teamwork, sportsmanship, and fostering a welcoming school environment for all students. Matthew's pursuit of excellence has earned him academic honors each of his high school years, and he graduates as a top ranked student in the class of 2026, earning the prestigious title of validictorian. This fall, Matthew will attend the University of Michigan, where he plans to major in business administration, and pursue a career in finance. Given his remarkable achievements, strong leadership skills, and dedication to excellence, there is little doubt that he has a bright future ahead. Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in congratulating and welcoming the validictorian of the Carbonelary class of 2026, Mr. Matthew Sakas. Good evening, family, friends, distinguished guests, and of course, the class of 2026. Before I begin, I want to take a moment to personally thank Mr. Frell, Mr.
018Gabriel, Mrs. Sarah and the school board for making this night possible, as well as all the teachers and faculty who have led us to this point. And one final thank you to my parents, Sarah and Ronald Sarcowski. I wouldn't be standing here without your constant and dedicated support. I'm forever grateful for everything that you've done for me. I also wanted to address the rumors and state that at this time I can neither confirm nor deny the allegations of the use of my CHBT plus subscription in the writing of this essay. Our class has shown resilience since before we ever even began high school. About six or seven years ago, we were struck by an unprecedented global pandemic which forced us to completely relearn how school worked after being accustomed to traditional learning our whole lives.
019And while many of us enjoyed the luxury of being able to sleep and play Fortnite during class, we missed out on many of the experiences that make childhood memorable. Not only did we never get that trip to the zoo, we lost the ability to see our friends every day and simply be kids while we still had the chance. When we finally did return more than halfway into seventh grade, it was an unfamiliar world. Not only did we have to readjust to school, we had to learn to keep up with the rapidly evolving digital age which we found ourselves in. Back then, we were just being introduced to apps like Tik Tok. And fast forward to today, you can reach into your pocket and access powerful AI tools that can do almost anything you want in
020a matter of seconds. But those were only a few obstacles we had to overcome to reach this stage. Entering high school, one of the most challenging parts of our lives. We were frightened and wildly unprepared for what the next few years were to bring. But we soon learned how to traverse the crowded halls and that there really was no second floor. And over the next six years, we gained useful and meaningful knowledge and everyday skills like using the Pythagorean theorem and knowing that the mitochondria is the powerhouse of the cell. But waking up at 7 a.m. every day to listen to Mr. Foyap was all worth it for a piece of paper with my name on it. And that piece of paper is special. Not only does it represent the academic trials and tribulations we
021faced, it also represents the lessons we learned about ourselves. Because for me, the most important lesson I learned didn't come from a classroom or textbook. It was learning on my own to stop living for others approval. And maybe many of you have felt the same. Now I have the confidence to stand here before you. But for far too much of high school, I was scared. Scared of what others might think? Do my clothes look weird? Do I look ugly? Does my voice look funny? Sound funny. I spent too much time worrying about what others thought of me. Paralyzed by the fear of judgment. And not enough time pursuing my passions and simply being myself. This caused me to lose out on more relationships, opportunities, and experiences than I have time to talk about. All because
022I cared how people saw me. Looking back now, I can say that my most fond memories aren't the times when I played it safe to avoid humiliation. They are the times when I took that risk and put myself out there. Whether it was talking to someone new, attending an event, or doing something outside of my comfort zone. Those are the memories I will never forget. In hindsight, I deeply regret not having the confidence sooner to make lifelong memories, enjoy some of the best years of my life, and I will have to live that. The older I get, the more I realize that the things I regret most aren't my failures. That are opportunities I never took. So now, I request that each of you ask yourself a simple question. If your life were a movie,
023would you want to watch it? Would you reminisce in your favorite scenes? Or would you sit there wondering what could have been? You don't want to look back 10, 20, 40, hopefully 70 years from now and regrettably say, "I wish I had followed that dream. I wish I had taken that chance. I wish I had been myself. I wish I wish. I wish." Instead of wishing when you were 80, sitting in a retirement home, that you had taken that chance, do something now that you will remember for the rest of your life. Even if your movie has had a bad start, it has only just begun. So, I challenge you to make it memorable. I challenge you to take every risk and challenge head on and do it with no regrets. Speak your mind when
024it's unpopular. Wear that shirt. Meet new people. Start that business or apply to that job. Talk to that girl or guy. But no matter what you decide to do, be you. You can recover from failure. But if you never even try, that will live with you for the rest of your life. Looking around this room, I know the future is in good hands. The class of 2026 has already overcome so many challenges that none of us could have ever expected. and I'm so excited to see what comes next. So, the me message I leave with you is simple. Be bold, take chances, and live your life unapologetically without reservation. Class of 2026, no matter how your movie began, make the rest of it worth watching. Thank you. Congratulations and good luck. I'll see you in
02510 years. At this time, we are pleased to present a special musical selection by Mr. Julian Fedorch. If Julian could please step forward. Throughout his high school career, Julian has distinguished himself through his musical talent and dedication. He has proudly represented Carbonale area as a participant in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association District Band and District Orchestra, performing in collegiate ensembles at Marwood University Northeastern York Wind Ensemble and was recognized for his outstanding abilities when he was selected as the WVIA artist of the week. This fall, Julian will continue pursuing his passion for music at Kutztown University, where he plans to major in education with an applied focus in percussion and piano. This evening, Julian will perform Traumaire, which translates to dreaming from kinder says, scenes from childhood. Composed by the renowned German composer Robert Schumann,
026this beautiful and expressive work is one of Schumann's most beloved compositions known for its gentle melody and reflective character. Please join me in welcoming Mr. Julian Fedorch. Are you there? It is now my pleasure to welcome to the stage our high school principal, Mr. Joseph Frell, who will share a few remarks and introduce this evening's commencement speaker. Ladies and gentlemen, our principal, Mr. Frell. It was just last month they were booing me. Please join me in welcoming Miss Chrissy Richards, a distinguished alumni of Carbondale Area High School's class of 1998. As saludiatoran of her graduating class, Chrissy earned top honors in mathematics and science, setting the stage for a remarkable career defined by academic excellence, innovation, and leadership. After graduating with honors from the University of Scranton, where she earned both bachelor's and master's degrees
027in chemistry and received the excellence in chemistry award for each degree. Chrissy then began her career with Sonafi in 2004 as a bench chemist. Over the past two decades, she has risen to become head of learning for North and South America, leading initiatives that support the growth and development of more than 25,000 professionals. Recognized national nationally for her expertise in quality systems, adult education, and pharmaceutical innovation. Chrissy has received numerous prestigious awards and has contributed to groundbreaking work including published research supporting accelerated vaccine development during the coid9 pandemic. Despite her impressive accomplishments, Chrissy remains grounded in the values she developed right here at Carbondale area. Resilience, curiosity, and a commitment to lifelong learning. A resident of Troop and proud mother of two, she is passionate about helping others embrace change, pursue meaningful careers, and reach
028their full potential. Please give a warm welcome to Carbondale Area graduate and accomplished leader Chrissy Richards. Thank you very much, Mr. Frell. Good evening, Mrs. sir, our board of education, administration, faculty, family, friends, and most importantly, the graduating class of 2026. I understand having had graduation moved inside was a little bit of a disappointment for most of you, but I must admit it made this night even more special for me. You see, in 1998, I stood in this exact spot. It's actually in the corner. As a graduating senior giving a very similar speech to this one back then, I was sitting directly where you are now, excited, nervous, hopeful, but completely unsure what the future would hold. What I did not know at the time was how much the lessons I learned here would shape
029the person and the leader I would become. The resilience, work ethic, and determination built within these walls has carried me further than I ever could have imagined. which is why it is an incredible honor to be here with you all tonight. It's interesting coming from a small town the way that we do. Throughout my career, I've met many different types of people from all over the world. And when I explain to them where I come from, I often hear that it's hard to believe. To that I have just two simple words. Believe it. For me it makes perfect sense because Carbondale was built on hard work, resilience, and the determination of generations who refused to give up in the face of hardship. From the rise of the anthraite coal industry in the early 1800s, miners,
030railroad workers, immigrants, and families work worked tirelessly in difficult and often dangerous conditions to build better lives for their families and future generations. The Pioneer City became a symbol of perseverance, fueled by the grit and sacrifice of the people who believed that hard work, community, and resilience could overcome adversity and create opportunity. Those values were instilled in the class of 1998 just as they continue to be today. inspiring you to pursue your goals, support one another, and carry forward the pride and strength that has helped define so many of us. Now, while my family did not work in the mines, I am the granddaughter of an orphan. My grandmother was orphaned at the age of 12. As the oldest still living at home, she left school to care for her younger siblings. She never complained.
031And in her 97 years, I don't think I've ever even heard her speak of it. See, she just did what needed to be done in the service to her family. As my biggest supporter, the pride she had in me as the first in my family to graduate from a four-year college is something I carry with me every single day. She left a legacy of hard work, love, and service to everyone she met. When I share that story and explain how she taught me to approach every situation in service to the people around me, I again hear just how hard that is to believe. And to that I have but the same two words, believe it. Blending these powerful elements, I built my career with a strong sense of hard work, resilience, and service to others.
032And I credit that for allowing me to grow from a kid from Carbondale to a bench chemist, a published scientist, an award-winning learning professional, and now the head of learning for North and South America at Santa Fe. So, when I was recently in Brazil being interviewed about what advice I would give my younger self, my answer came quickly and easily. I told them that I would say, "You need to relax a little bit and trust that with hard work, determination, resilience, and coming to every situation in the service of others, everything will pretty much work out for the better." And this is also what I planned on sharing with all of you here tonight. It wasn't until I returned home, reading through the posts and messages and reflecting on what an amazing experience it truly
033had been that I realized I had missed the mark a bit because if I could go back to 1998 and look at the Chrissy Salvatore standing at this podium, I wouldn't need to tell her to work hard, to be resilient, or to serve others. She already knew that. What I truly wish I could tell her was that after that hard work paid off, stop and enjoy the win. Hold on to those proud moments that matter. Because while hard work and resilience certainly helped me succeed, they did not always serve me well in the losses. In a career that spanned 22 years, believe me, there were losses. Projects that failed, positions I didn't receive, people that I lost. And I truly believe that if I had focused more on the winds, having those moments to think
034back on and feel would have made the difficult times a bit easier. So with that in mind, I would like to ask you to indulge me for just a moment. Class of 2026, I would like you to close your eyes. And in doing so, I would like you to bring to mind something you are extremely proud of. It might be the moment you were named validictorian of this class, when you received that acceptance letter from your stretch school, when you landed your first job, or when you signed your name to serve this country. All of these things you should be extremely proud of. Whatever your moment is, I want you to visualize it. They're really good at this. I want you to really think about it and then I want you to fold it up
035and I want you to tuck it away deep inside your heart. Because once your names are read, your tassels are moved, you walk out of this auditorium, and the celebrations come to an end. The losses will come. And when they do, I want you to take out this memory. I want you to unfold it. And I want you to really feel it. And I want you to remember that with hard work, resilience, a commitment to serving others, and the strength of your past wins, everything does work out for the better. And I want you to believe it. With that, I would like to congratulate each and every one of you. You are now part of history as the class of 2026. On behalf of your administration, faculty, family, and friends, I wish you the utmost
036success in your future endeavors. And may God bless you all. Thank you. We now turn to one of our most cherished commencement traditions, the conferring of the senior mantle, symbolizing the passing of leadership from this year's senior class to next year's rising seniors. Following the mantle ceremony, Mr. Frell and our director of guidance, Mrs. Megan Rogerio, will present the Ruth Giles Schrader Scholarship. Please welcome our senior class president, Miss Olivia Lawler, and our junior class president, Miss Kamar Mcan, as they carry out this symbolic gesture. This mantle will be presented to the Carbondale area class of 2027. It represents many fine qualities such as academic pride, a prestigious heritage, and special friendship between classes. We, the senior class, wish you, the class of 2026, 2027, the best luck as you strive to uphold the mantle's
037fine qualities and traditions. As president of the senior class of 2026, I bestow this mantle upon you and your class and acknowledge you to be the Carbondale area senior class of 2027. We, the junior class, accept this mantle with eagerness and pride. We will strive to emulate the qualities it exemplifies. academic pride, a prestigious heritage, and most of all, friendship between classes. Tonight, we, the junior class, congratulate the senior class of 2026 and wish you the best of luck in future endeavors. We look forward to the challenge of attaining the same reputation and the everlasting tradition this mantra represents. Good evening. As a representative of the trustees of the Ruth Giles Shrader Scholarship, I would like to make the following facts known to the Carbondale area community. From year to year, the number of eligible
038applicants and the economic factors, including the investment climate, all blend to determine the precise value of the scholarships awarded to the applicants. In the past 40 years, the Ruth Giles Shrader Scholarship has awarded over 1,682,000 in aid to Carbondale Area High School graduates. Past recipients of the Trader Scholarship have made a multitude of positive academic contributions in their chosen fields of scientific study. The trustees of the scholarship recognize that the endowments created by Ruth Gilerader have nurtured the academic proficiency of numerous Carbondale area high school graduates. The entire Carbondale area community and the world itself has been deeply enriched by the unselfish and community-minded spirit of Ruth Giles Shrader scholarship recipient for 2026. Please stand as I call your name. This year's recipient of $25,000, William Murphy. Before I certify the class, I just want
039to review some of the accomplishments of the class of 2026. 11 seniors shined both on stage and behind the scenes as dedicated members of the drama club, bringing their creativity, passion, and talent to our spring musical production of Aladdin. One senior was selected to perform with Marywood University's Northeastern Youth Band, plus the University Level Wind Symphony and Orchestra. Four seniors earned the respective honor of performing in PMEA District 9 band orchestra and chorus and ensembles. Five members of the class of 2026 participated in community connections to our watershed where they actively engaged in hands-on experiences to deepen their knowledge of the environment. These students were challenged to think critically and to work collaboratively as they participated in investigations, engaged in educational field experiences, and explored envir environmental issues affecting our local communities. Six members of
040the class of 2026 have achieved remarkable success through the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science, consistently earning first place awards at both the regional and state levels. These students received the prestigious state perseverance award recognizing their participation in PJ PJS states every year from seventh grade right through their senior year. In addition, one senior earned the highest honor in region two for behavioral sciences, highlighting an exceptional commitment to scientific research and achievement. Our senior members of Students Against Destructive Decisions, better known as SAD, have made a lasting impact on our school community through their leadership and advocacy. They organized meaningful initiatives focused on suicide prevention and mental health awareness while also spearheading this year's Prom Promise program, demonstrating their dedication to promoting safe and healthy choices among their peers. The senior members of the science and
041technology club have inspired the next generation of learners by designing leading elementary STEM nights where they mentored younger students and fostered excitement for STEM throughout their high school careers. These students have also explored a wide range of STEM professions by connecting with industry professionals and gaining valuable insight into high demand career pathways. Throughout their years at Carbondale area, several seniors have devoted their time and talents to programs such as Michaela's Voice, the Polar Bear Plunge, and unified sports. Through their actions, they have championed inclusion, compassion, and respect for all members of our school community. Over the past two years alone, these students have raised more than $8,000 to support Special Olympics and unified sports programs here at Carbondale area. Four seniors proudly represented Carbondale area in both WVIA Scholastic Scrimmage and the NEIU Academic Challenge.
042Their participation showcased not only their academic excellence and critical thinking skills, but also their pride in representing our school on a regional stage. Two seniors have tutored their peers consistently in the mornings before school for the past three years as members of the Future Teachers Club. Two seniors were selected and recorded for WVIA's artist of the week and showcased their talents on local television. Two seniors participated in the Congressional Art Competition and showcased their artwork at the Everheart Museum in Scranton. Two seniors gained hands-on experience and valuable skills related to the electrical trade and workforce readiness by completing an electrical pre-apprenticeship through IEC, the Independent Electrical Contractors Association. Two seniors received grants to participate in a five-week program of master classes in theater and dance at the Lysum School of Performing Arts in Scranton. Working
043alongside professional artists, they refined their performance techniques, explored new approaches to artistic expression, and gained valuable insight into the performing arts through intensive hands-on instruction. Our 24 senior National Honor Society members contributed nearly 400 hours of community service just this year alone. One senior claimed the top spot as an FBLA state champion. 11 students from this class achieved top 10 finishes at the FBLA state leadership conference. Two exceptional students advanced all the way to represent Carbondale area at the National Future Business Leader Competition. In the Pennsylvania Council for Financial Literacy, statewide challenges, one of our students won first place in the budget challenge and another placed eighth in the state in the stock market challenge with an incredible 32% portfolio growth. Four seniors were members of the mock trial team and competed in trials where
044they sharpened their public speaking, teamwork, and time management skills and gained new knowledge about courtroom procedures. Uh, several of our sports teams qualified for the PIAAA District 2 playoffs. All senior members of the Career Technology Center passed their NOCT exams. Three seniors representing the varsity golf team qualified for the PIAAA district tournament in their first season ever playing. 18 seniors participated in the co-op program, gaining valuable hands-on work experiencing experience and developing the skills needed for success in their future careers and post-secary plans. 12 additional seniors completed a total of 15 job shadow experiences exploring careers of interest and gaining firsthand insight into a variety of professional work environments. Finally, as part of our dual enrollment opportunities, one of our seniors is the first student in the history of our school district to earn her
045associates degree from Lacawana College prior to receiving her high school diploma. The following is a list of the post-graduate plans of the class of 2026. 51% will be attending a 4-year college or university. 21% will attend a two-year college, technical or trade school. 22% will enter the workforce. And five students are entering the military. At this time, I would like I would ask that the graduates who will be entering the military please stand and remain standing. If there are any veterans or active members of the military as well as first responders, police officers, firefighters, or EMS personnel, please also stand and remain standing. Come on, don't be shy. We thank you sincerely and wholeheartedly for your service and your selfless commitment to others. You may be seated. It is a pleasure and honor and with
046great charge of pride that I declare to you, Mrs. Sarah, superintendent of schools, and to you, Mr. Osborne, president of the board of school directors, that these members of the class of 2026, have met all the requirements for graduation, including required subjects and total credits. They are prepared to seek a new path and create new traditions and therefore are entitled to receive a Carbondale area high school diploma from the Carbondale Area School District. Good evening, members of the Carbondale Area High School class of 2026, members of the board of school directors, administrative staff, faculty members, parents, family members, and friends. In 1776, a nation was born on the promise of possibility. In 1851, the city of Carbondale began writing its own story of resilience, pride, and hard work. In 1976, the Carbondale Area School District
047celebrated its first graduating class. Students who walked this stage as Chargers, setting the foundation for everything we are today. And tonight, in 2026, you become the next chapter in all three stories. This is not just another graduation. This is a moment where history meets opportunity. 50 years ago, the class of 1976 sat where you're sitting now. They didn't inherit tradition. They created it. They built the identity, the pride, and the expectations that you now carry forward. Because of them, there is legacy. And now, because of you, there will be a future. At the same time, we celebrate 175 years of the city of Carbondale. A community that has always been defined by grit, resilience, and heart. This is a place where people show up for one another. A place where hard work matters. A place
048where pride runs deep. You were raised in that environment. It shaped you. It grounded you. And no matter where life takes you, you will always carry Carbondale with you. and Carbondale will always claim you. And this year, as our nation marks 250 years, we are reminded that the promise of 1776 was never about perfection. It was about possibility. It was about the courage to begin, the willingness to grow, and the responsibility to make things better. As your superintendent, I've watched you grow, succeed, and create memories that will last a lifetime. The senior trip to Dave and Busters was certainly one of those memories. I'm told Mr. Ferrell challenged students to Pac-Man, which may be the first recorded instance of a principal competing against teenagers in a game that he's had 40 years to practice. So
049tonight, I leave you with this. was a beginning. 1851 was a beginning. 1976 was a beginning. And tonight, this is your beginning. History is not something you read about. It is something you create, believe it, be you, embrace change, and never forget you will always be a Charger. Congratulations. It is a pleasure and honor as superintendent of schools and appointed representative of the board of school directors of the Carbondale Area School District to accept the list of graduating seniors for 2026 from Carbondale Area High School. I do hereby certify and affirm in the presence of all assembled that each individual has met or exceeded the requirements for graduation set forth by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Carbondale Area School District and is ready to receive his or her diploma. John's first. ballers. First, >>
050class president Olivia Lawler. Oh my god. You got all those designs on there getting caught on it. >> David Beer, validictorian Matthew Saraskski. Gotcha. Saludiatoran William Murphy, Ashley Ares, Ella Hope Casper, Taylor Lynn Corrian, Samuel Duplesus, Aurora Ezro, >> Julian Fedorek, Ethan Scott Gardin, Emily Grover, Grace Jerica Lane, Uh, we got a little bit >> Alexander Mackey. Aiden Travis Manis, Jacob Morki, Albon Nassufi, Moren Grace Nukem, Giana Perry, Riley Petra, Connie Repture, >> Rain Stevenson, Delaney Anne Strain, Zachary Robert Tarch, Matalina Zakone, she's up next. Angelina Andadora, Dominic Andodora, Nicholas J and Adora, >> Amaya Olivia Atmore, >> Mallerie Hope Brower, Kayla Caleb Buddy, Marty Buffano, Isaiah O'Neal Kamacho, >> Braden Elizabeth Campbell, Angelina Kerry, >> Ethan James Clark, >> Cameron Cloutier, David W. Kalachi >> Jaden Arthur Cayman D. Compton. >> Azm mean Dela
051Cruz. Erica Miley Delanoi, Leonard DeMarco III, >> Xander Mason Dumbroski, Juliana Drake, >> Dominic Dab, >> Cole, Michael, Emily, Alyssa Evans, Avesia Erica Latan Evans, >> Avery E. Golinsky, >> Bethany Brie Gil, John Thomas Gorl, >> Mason James Griffin, Alyssa Galawadi, >> Haley Anne Guzman, >> Nicholas Herman, Xander Jean Kyle, >> Jaden Keller, Colin Dominic Hollis, >> Joshua Kilhullen, >> Madison Gwendelyn Kilmer, Malachi Kaiser >> Keegan Riley Kuna Gabriel Lynn Langil Nicholas Lob, Jaden Litki, Chelsea Low, >> Andre Ra Lumpin >> Abigail Victoria Liny >> Non Mar Leila Christina Maldonado Sean Manley. Nathan Moss, >> Serenity McGawan, Anthony Melnik, >> Morgan Das Mahalik, >> McKenna Miller, Olivia Taylor Montaperto >> Dennis L. Morales Jr. >> Hanelli Carolina Marabel Martinez Emma Sophia Marakovich, Leo Valentine Merch, Davit, David O'Neal Meyers, Gavin Michael Nepa, >> Mason Anthony
052Nepa, >> Maximleian Neves, Noah Nistra, and Anthony Joseph Piva. Sierra Elizabeth Pigeon Dean Ellis Proarum, Christian Carl Propes, >> Killian Reedi, Landon Anthony Rivera, >> Adriana Roberts, >> Jason A. Rodney, >> Tyler Rodriguez, Joselyn Santos, >> Thomas S. Seymour, Kyle Lachlin, Chenise, Amanda Lillian Singleton, >> Gabriel Paul Smith, Parker Perry Smith, Nathaniel Sinera. Avery Samantha Sapco, >> Coben Christopher Sosa Angel St. Clair, >> Damian Cir Swain Lee, Michael Telip, Savannah Thompson, Kayla Michelle Ty, >> Ariana Nicole Turpio, >> Antonia IO Jose Torres, >> Denasia Trice, >> Nathan Mer, >> Xavier Andre Vargas, Emily Wearing Joseph Eugene Watkins Jr. >> Adriana Wolf Bryen Yeder, thank you. Alyssa Marie Yoast, Claire Elizabeth Zeroski ready. Everybody stand. Ladies and gentlemen, I am proud to present to you the class of 2026.