The Class of 2026 graduation is right around the corner, and the final days of high school are quickly coming to an end for the seniors at STA. Only a few years ago, these graduates were in kindergarten, thinking that the year 2026 seemed so far away. Now, they are preparing to begin an exciting new chapter of life filled with college, careers, and new opportunities. On Saturday, May 16th, they will cross the stage at the Rick Case Arena at the Don Taft University Center on Nova Southeastern University’s campus in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and venture into their adult lives. While this season is exciting, it can also be stressful as students shop for dorm or apartment essentials, work extra shifts, and make the most of their final weeks together.
For many students, graduation is more than just a ceremony. It represents four years of hard work, achievements, friendships, and memories that have shaped their high school experience. STA has continued to build its reputation as one of the top private schools in Florida, known for excellence both inside and outside the classroom. Throughout their time at STA, students have formed meaningful relationships with teachers and classmates while participating in traditions that made their high school years memorable.
Senior John Myhre reflected on one of his favorite memories from STA, saying, “The egg drop with Mr. Davis was my favorite memory from my high school experience.” Carolyn Levy-Powell also shared some of her favorite senior moments: “My favorite senior memory was Senior Step Up Day and my last States meet for swimming. I also enjoyed prom because I got to spend time with friends.”
Teachers and staff members have also reflected proudly on the accomplishments and spirit of the graduating class. Hadiza Crockett shared, “My favorite memory from STA was the first time we ever held our own pep rally.” Crockett also spoke about one of the traditions seniors recently celebrated, adding, “I really enjoyed College Decision Day because I was excited about the college I’m going to and seeing where my peers were planning to attend.”
The seniors at STA have balanced academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities while continuing to show strong school spirit throughout their four years. As graduation approaches, students are taking part in important traditions such as graduation practice, yearbook signing, prom, and College Decision Day. These final events are expected to make the last weeks of school especially emotional for the Class of 2026.
This year’s graduating class has achieved tremendous academic success. The Valedictorian for the Class of 2026 is Marisa Robinson, and the Salutatorian is Devin Onore. In addition, STA is celebrating 112 Summa Cum Laude graduates.
After graduation, STA seniors will continue their journeys at colleges and universities across the country. Members of the Class of 2026 will attend schools including Tulane University, Florida State University, the University of Florida, the University of Central Florida, the University of Miami, the University of Alabama, the University of South Florida, Michigan State University, Arizona State University, the University of Kentucky, Florida International University, Florida Atlantic University, Ohio State University, LSU, SMU, Indiana University, Georgetown University, the University of North Carolina, Penn State University, Columbia University, Nova Southeastern University, Ole Miss, NYU, Clemson University, Auburn University, the University of Georgia, and the University of Tampa. While some students will stay close to home, others will travel across the country to begin the next chapter of their lives.
Although graduation marks the end of high school, it also represents a new beginning. The Class of 2026 leaves STA with years of memories, friendships, and accomplishments that will stay with them long after graduation day. Levy-Powell offered advice to future seniors, saying, “Do not stress yourself out about things you cannot control.”
