PHS Graduation: 186 in Class of 2026 earn a 'passport to the future'

Watch the full ceremony above; scroll down to see timestamps for key moments

One by one, 186 Poughkeepsie High School students Friday evening walked across a stage, shook hands with school, district and government leaders, and received a diploma in a blue engraved case.
That diploma, Superintendent of Schools Gregory Mott said, “is far more than a piece of paper. It is your passport to the future.
”On an evening in which the Pioneers gathered to celebrate where they’ve been, where they will go next was a favorite topic during high school’s 154th Commencement Exercises.
“This evening, this stadium is filled with years of hard work, quiet sacrifices and well-earned victories,” Mott said, before encouraging them to “step into your next chapter with courage.”
The ceremony was held on the school’s football field under sunny skies as late-day heat slowly gave way to a comfortable evening and an event filled with music and energy.
The high school’s combined orchestra and band performed the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance,” and students performed both “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Later, Clinton Elementary Principal Dr. David Scott and his son led the impending graduates in a dance break.
Live translation was available for non-English-speaking attendees, through devices made available to anyone who needed one as they entered the field. American Sign Language translators were also on stage for all speeches.
Throughout, large crowds of family and friends cheered on each student from seating on the field and the surrounding bleachers.
“Today is a day of celebration,” Principal Dr. Phee Simpson said. “You are standing at a pivotal point in your lives; a moment between what has been and what is yet to come. As you move forward, remember this: Education is not just about school. Education is not just about grades. Education is freedom and education is access. Education is possibility and education is learning how the world works, so one day you can decide how you want to move in it.
“The diploma you receive today is not the end of your education,” she continued, “it is the beginning of a lifelong commitment to learning, growing and becoming the person you are capable of being."
Of the 186 total graduates celebrated Friday, 44 completed high school with an average of 90 or better, earning a seat on the dais with school and district administration, as well as Mayor Yvonne Flowers, State Sen. Rob Rolison and keynote speaker Rashad Ricketts, a 2014 Poughkeepsie High School graduate himself.
Ricketts, a financial analyst with a master’s degree in business analytics, and a board member of the city’s Industrial Development Agency, said he hoped to serve to the graduates as proof that success is possible for them regardless of their backgrounds. He encouraged them to stay true to themselves while pushing forward.
“Growth is not always comfortable, but it’s always necessary,” he said. “People don’t clap for seeds, they clap for trees.”
Both Salutatorian Aubrey Wood and Valedictorian Israa Hadine – best friends who both plan to attend Vassar College and Marist University, respectively – discussed personal journeys in their remarks. Wood talked about the importance – especially for women – of having the confidence to speak up and be heard. Hadine reminded her classmates people all face differing struggles – some more challenging than others.
“Your story matters, your journey matters and although today we leave this place in different directions, we will forever remain chapters in one another’s life,” said Hadine, who also served as class president.
The concept that each individual in the graduating class is different but, still, they experienced something collectively, was touched on several times through the ceremony, including by class vice president Renata Martinez.
“Life will take each of us in different directions. Some will attend college, some will begin their careers,” she said. “No matter where we go, we will carry with us the experiences, friendships and lessons we’ve gained here. We can’t promise you we know where we’re going, yet, but we do promise we will continue to learn, grow and have the courage to take the next step.”
Key Moments in the ceremony video: