Live Video Included: Alton High School Graduation Highlights Inspiring Student Achievements

Full Alton High graduation list also is listed below video.

May 19, 2026 2:11 PM May 19, 2026 6:26 PM Save

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Alton High School Graduation 2026

ALTON - Alton High School’s Class of 2026 received their diplomas after inspiring student speeches and musical performances on Saturday, May 16, 2026. The presentation of diplomas was done by the Alton Community Unit School District No. 11 Board of Education.

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The ceremony was led by Alton High School Principal Stacie Franke, and Alton School District Superintendent Elaine Kane presented the “Platinum Alphas” as Alton School Board members presented diplomas to class members.

The ceremony opened with a prelude by the Alton High School Band under the direction of Matthew Chesner and Chuck Willard, followed by the processional, “Pomp and Circumstance,” arranged by James Ployhar. Franke delivered the welcome and an “Explanation of Platinum Alpha,” and introduced guests.

The “Star-Spangled Banner” by Francis Scott Key was performed by an Alton High School orchestra under the direction of Laura Plummer, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by ROTC Cadet Captain Wyatt Cole.

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A graduation speech was issued by Samuel Caughran. The program also included “Remember Me” from “Coco,” by Roger Emerson, featuring soloist Lily Waltz and the Alton High School Choir seniors under the direction of Leah Galbraith.

Remarks of the Class of 2026 came from Naeem West, followed by the “Presentation of Cane & Chain.” Remarks of the Class of 2027 were delivered by Eden Warford.

Diplomas were presented by members of the Board of Education: President Christina M. Milien, Vice President David Lauschke, Secretary Vivian Monckton, and members Tiana Gipson, Jason Harrison, Barry Macias, and Al Womack. Franke also provided the “Recognition of Alumni and Presentation of the Class of 2026.”

Junior marshals at the graduation were Rebekah Calaway-Habeck, McKenna Dondanville, Isabel Espinoza, Quinn Halliday, Mollie Hilgert, Erick Humphrey, Eva Riney, and Faye Weirich.

The graduation program included a quote from William James that was meaningful to graduates: “Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.”

These are the 2026 Alton High graduates: