Achievements, that, as class president Tenzin Khando so eloquently stated in her graduation speech, can be attributed significantly to the dreams and sacrifices of our students' largely immigrant parents:
"To the immigrant parents sitting in this audience tonight, thank you. Thank you for the sacrifices that often went unnoticed. Thank you for the risks you took in leaving behind the comfort of your homes, your families, and everything familiar in pursuit of a better future for us.
Many of you arrived in a country where you had to rebuild your lives from the beginning. You worked long hours in difficult jobs, faced uncertainty and isolation, and carried responsibilities that frankly none of us will ever understand, thanks to you. You gave us opportunities even if it meant putting your own dreams on hold. You taught us the value of perseverance through your actions, not just your words.
For many students here tonight, success didn't begin in a classroom. It began at home with parents who sacrificed comfort for opportunity. It began with parents who navigated unfamiliar systems, learned new languages and culture, and endured hardships so we could stand on this stage today with possibilities they never had for themselves.
Class of 2026, as we move into the next chapter of our lives, whether that be college, careers, military service, or other paths, let us carry these lessons with us. Let us remember the sacrifices that allowed us to stand here tonight. Let us continue to work hard, uplift others, and create opportunities not only for ourselves but for the next generation as well."
We are incredibly proud of all that the Class of 2026 has accomplished and look forward to seeing the amazing things they will do in the years ahead. Echoing the words of their principal Christine Douglas, with their kindness, humor, and empathy, they can change the world.