Congratulations, High School Class of 2026!

The tassels have been turned, the diplomas have been earned, and the memories will last a lifetime.

Congratulations to the High School East and West classse of 2026!

At East, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mark Secaur took pride in the achievements of the graduating seniors, while also praising the family support systems who helped them achieve this milestone.

“While this day is about you, please be sure to thank your parents and guardians for this is a great day for them as well. They have made countless sacrifices to make this day a reality,” said Dr. Secaur.

Principal Paul McNeil told the graduation class, “You matured into responsible young adults who set the bar for academic achievement and student conduct. You fully embraced our comprehensive high school program, participating in rigorous coursework, numerous electives, games on this very field, the Business Olympics, drama productions, & performances at Carnegie Hall. Next year, and in life, my challenge to you is this: set the standard by outworking those around you. Your success is largely predicated on your work ethic. Put in the time and work harder than everyone else around you!”

Honor Speaker Madeline McCullough, selected by her peers to speak, told her classmates to close her eyes and encouraged them to take risks. “As we sit here in our caps and gowns, it feels like everything is ending, but in reality we’re just getting started.” McCullough exclaimed. “Don’t let time take away your ambition, your passion, and every unique part about you that got you to where you are today…So, classmates, family members, friends, and faculty: congratulations, you got your second chance. The question now is, what are you going to do with it?”

At West, Principal William Holl addressed the graduating seniors and praised their sense of community. “This has always been a school where students show up - not just for class, but for each other. Whether you wore a jersey, performed on stage, played an instrument, competed academically, volunteered your time, or found your place in one of our many clubs, you helped build a community that is close-knit, supportive, and something you should be proud of.

Honor Speaker Kristin McGuire wanted her colleagues to reflect on who they were in high school and who they can become, telling the class, “Who we are today is a reflection of every trivial moment we've experienced thus far: a mosaic of every interaction, every friendship, every hardship, every success, and even every failure that shapes our identity. With this in mind, remember that these twelve years are the foundation for the people we are today. Graduation is not just an opportunity to start over, but an opportunity to reflect on the experiences and build on the lessons learned in high school.”

After the congratulatory speeches and diploma distribution, the seniors then participated in the traditional moving of the tassels to indicate their becoming alumni of the Smithtown Central School District. 

For more High School East pictures click HERE.

For more High School West pictures click HERE.