Randolph Central School Class of 2026 graduates toss their caps following the ceremony.

RANDOLPH — The Randolph Central School District celebrated the Class of 2026 during a commencement ceremony in the school auditorium recently.

Jason Halpainy, high school principal, opened the ceremony by welcoming families, friends, and community members. Halpainy encouraged the graduating class to prioritize character and respect as they navigate a rapidly changing society.

“In a world that celebrates the smartest, the fastest, the loudest, don’t underestimate being the kindest,” Halpainy said, assuring them that everything will be fine if they are decent to others. “Twenty years from now, people won’t remember your GPA. They won’t remember how many points you scored or how many awards you won, but they’ll remember how you made them feel. They’ll remember that you showed up for them, whether you cared, and whether you treated others well.”

Dr. Kaine Kelly, district superintendent, delivered the opening remarks of the evening, focusing on the unique identity and strength of the graduating class. Kelly noted that while older generations grew up with independence, the Class of 2026 has distinguished itself through empathy and care in the face of challenges.

“What has impressed me is how you responded,” Kelly said. “You responded together. When one person struggled, others stepped in. When someone experienced loss, classmates surrounded them with support. When life became difficult, you showed up for one another. You listened, you encouraged, you cared. In a world that often celebrates individual achievement, this class has demonstrated the power of community.”

The theme of resilience continued through the commencement address from Duncan Kirkwood, a nationally recognized speaker and author. Kirkwood, who previously addressed the graduates during their freshman year, urged the students to establish bold, ambitious goals in the future.

“In life, you only get what you’re brave enough to reach for,” Kirkwood said. He compared life’s journey to GPS, encouraging students to view obstacles as opportunities to adjust course. “You set a destination, and you have your setbacks, you have roadblocks, but you just keep rerouting and moving forward, and eventually you’ll get there.”

Cooper Freeman, son of Matthew and Sarla Freeman, came forward to deliver a salutatory address filled with humorous and sentimental memories from high school. Freeman took the time to recognize the encouragement offered by family members and the motivation brought by teachers and staff. His speech also emphasized the deep support system within the Randolph community.

“Our school community has always shown up,” Freeman said. Whether it be sports, concerts, pep rallies, or academic events, he noted that people come ready to support each other. “That support says something important about this community. People care. People show up for one another, and that is something special.”

The ceremony went on to celebrate the academic, civic, and personal achievements of the graduating class during an awards presentation. More than $104,000 in local scholarships were awarded to the graduates as they pursue their academic and career plans. The honors were presented by Halpainy, Guidance Counselor Samantha Carroll, members of the Randolph community, and representatives from local organizations and non-profits.

Valedictorian Jenna Anderson, daughter of Patrick and Kristy Anderson, gave the final address and reflected on her academic discipline over the four years of high school. She shared her realization that fulfillment is found in relationships rather than accolades.

“Have goals. Work hard. Be proud of yourself. But don’t spend your life chasing something you think will finally prove your worth,” Anderson said. “If you want to know what actually brings fulfillment, I’ll save you four years of trial and error: It’s people.”

Anderson also challenged her classmates to reflect on the experiences they had outside of the classroom, in hallways between classes, the senior center, and during long conversations with friends.

“Those experiences taught us how to handle disappointment, how to celebrate someone else’s success, how to work with people who are different from us, and how to build relationships that matter,” Anderson said. “In a world that constantly pushes division, comparison, and status, choosing empathy and connection is one of the most meaningful forms of success there is.”

The evening concluded with the presentation of diplomas by Halpainy and the official conferring of diplomas by Kyle Brown, school board vice president.