Washington High School’s 125th commencement was held Thursday, May 21, at Scanlan Stadium on the WHS campus.

There were approximately 340 seniors in the Class of 2026 who received diplomas.

Washington High School Principal Dr. Eric Turner welcomed guests to commencement and introduced administrators and Board of Education members on or near the stage. He also gave the closing remarks.

The WHS band performed “Pomp and Circumstance,” by Elgar Polyhar.

The WHS NJROTC was on hand for the presentation of colors.

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by senior class officers.

The WHS choir performed the school song and the national anthem.

Assistant Principals Ben Strauser and Dr. Nicole Wilmes announced students earning honors and high honors.

Assistant Principal Shawn Wallace introduced the graduating seniors who gave addresses during the ceremony. Those students were Olivia Jensen, Rachel Hensley, Della Lorch, Tyler Vollmer, Sarah Stewart, Eleni Kriete, Abby Blackwell and Alyssa Deppe.

School District of Washington Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Kephart gave the superintendent’s message.

Kelly Brinkmann, Vice President, spoke on behalf of the Board of Education and presented the diplomas.

Katie Sandoval, retiring WHS counselor, presented the Class of 2026.

Board of Education members presented diplomas.

Colin Briggs, Senior Class President, led the seniors in the turning of the tassel.

Class of 2026 Officers are:

Colin Briggs - President

Eleni Kriete - Vice President

Mya Spaunhorst - Secretary

Ethan Pier - Treasurer

Nathan Oreskovic - Student Council Representative.

Senior class sponsors are Amanda Kuntzman and Jessica Fitzgerald. 

This year’s class song is “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da,” by the Beatles.

The class flower is Bluebells.

The class motto is, “You can’t climb the ladder of success with your hands in your pockets,” by Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Photos of the ceremony and some of the graduates are below.