Chelsea High School Class of 2026 Begins a New Chapter

Following the processional accompanied by a recording of Edward Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance,” the chamber choir sang “The Star-Spangled Banner,” conducted by Ken Davis, choir director.

CHS Principal Amanda Clor told the class to look at everyone who helped them get to this point as “the faces behind your story” as they reflect on their high school years. “I've seen your successes, your struggles and your resilience,” she said, which have left a lasting impression on her.

In a humorous moment that drew groans from the graduates, Clor said, “You have also endured something that previous graduating classes might consider unthinkable — a cell phone ban your senior year. And somehow, despite the odds, despite the suffering, despite the hardship, despite the emotional trauma, you survived.”

As a result of the ban, students and faculty were reminded that technology is just a tool, but “… human connection is what gives life meaning.” An important lesson, Clor said, because the Class of 2026 is entering a world that is rapidly changing and shaped by Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Clor reminded the graduates that human relationships are most important, and the qualities of grit, integrity, perseverance, empathy, and character are timeless. “Your future will not be defined by the tools you have access to,” she said. “It will be defined by the person you choose to become.”

Two graduates were chosen by their peers to speak at commencement.

Isabella D’Alecy was on the girls soccer team and in the band. She will attend Western Michigan University in the fall where she plans to join the drumline. She also wants to study abroad to improve her Spanish.

D’Alecy shared a series of humorous memories dating back to middle school which transitioned to advice to her peers. “Instead of forcing a positive outlook … practice radical acceptance, which means to fully acknowledge reality without resistance, judgment, or approval,” she said.

Even when the inevitable rejection comes, remember your own unique features and value. Do things that fulfill you. “… Nobody remembers what you said or what you did. Instead, they remember how you made them feel,” she said.

Benjamin Van Hoek was president of the student council, played football, and was on the track team. A National Merit Finalist and top ten graduate, Van Hoek will attend Cornell University in the fall to major in engineering and play football.

Van Hoek’s speech also relied on humor with memories dating back to early elementary school where they learned how to be bucket fillers, transitioning to the class’s “… monumental task of turning a pile of potential into meaningful success and impact. …

“As we go forth into the world, all we can do is rely on the lessons we learned together: work together, build others up, push yourselves, and most of all, be a bucket filler,” he said in closing.