Millbrook High School class of 2026 celebrates graduation

MILLBROOK — A lengthy rain delay did little to dampen the spirits of the Millbrook High School Class of 2026 and the family and friends who gathered Friday for the school’s commencement ceremony.

The weather eventually cooperated, with a rainbow appearing over the field just before the procession began for the 60 seniors preparing to receive their diplomas.

Speeches offered advice and reflected on gratitude for teachers, administrators, staff and family, all contributing to the moment of transition from high school years to promising futures.

Principal Eric Seipp opened with welcoming remarks and thanks to all constituents within the school who had guided the Senior Class through their final year. He spoke of achievement and perseverance.

“Tonight is about transition,” Seipp told graduates. “The simplest message can be the most powerful,” he added. “You leave here with far more than a diploma. You will remember the people.”

“The world needs more people who choose kindness. How you treat others matters,” Seipp said.

Seipp noted that the Commencement would mark his final year as Principal of Millbrook High School, ending his eight-year tenure.

“It has been one of the greatest honors of my career to have served as your principal,” Seipp told the school community.

Confidently stepping into their futures, the 60 members of the Millbrook High School Class of 2026 received their diplomas during commencement exercises on Friday, June 12.Leila Hawken

Millbrook Superintendent Caroline Hernandez-Pidala advised graduates to show empathy for others.

“Read more; ask more questions,” she said.

Guidance Counselor Thomas Chanowsky said that he is often asked how he can stay so positive.

“I am just happy to be here,” was Chanowsky’s response. “I hope I made a difference.”

Salutatorian Lydia Kascsak had totaled the number of days she had spent at high school at 1,374.

“Work hard and never stop learning,” she told classmates, while thanking the school’s constituent teachers, administrators and staff, and her parents.

Valedictorian Dylan Vasquez spoke with assurance, urging graduates to “make sure you feel.” He went on to thank the school’s constituents and ended by reading a reflective poem written by his mother before he was born.

The ceremony ended with presentation of the Class of 2026 to the Board of Education, followed by recessional music performed by the high school band under the direction of Daniel Dunninger.