News Photo by Kayla Wikaryasz On Friday, Rogers City High School graduating seniors are seen sitting during the 2026 commencement ceremony in the Rogers City High School gymnasium. Family, friends, and faculty attended to celebrate this milestone.

ATLANTA — Rogers City High School graduating seniors of 2026 celebrated turning their tassels on Sunday, marking the completion of their high school careers.

Rogers City Board of Education President Andrew K. Grambau opened the ceremony with a speech stating that the 2026 graduating class’ success represents the goals of the board.

“It was promised that the Rogers City Area School districts, in partnership with parents and the community, are providing a safe learning environment that produces self-sufficient, problem solving students who are prepared for ever changing worlds,” he said. “And this afternoon, its the ultimate proof that this mission has been fulfilled.”

Grambau noted the contributions of family and community members to the success of Rogers City students.

“Your achievement today is a triumph of partnership,” he said. “Our community wrapped its arms around you, supported your fundraisers, cheered at your games, clapped at your concerts, and guided your studies.”

“You did not get here alone and your success is a shared victory for all of Rogers City,” he added.

Salutatorian Cole Brege took the stage before graduates received their diplomas and spoke about the journey of life and how graduation is just one stop along a train ride. He cited a metaphor he called the “Train Theory.”

“It is a metaphor … the train goes on with no exact destination,” he said. “Once in a while it will pick up and drop off passengers. These people could be with you for just a minute, a few days, weeks, years, or even your entire life.”

“But no matter the amount of time they are with you, there’s a reason behind it even if you may never know,” he added.

He noted the importance of cherishing those moments and lessons those people may teach you along your journey.

Next, Valedictorian Chelsea Myers took the stage and spoke about the role God has played in the success of her fellow classmates.

“God gave us strength, perseverance, and help,” she said. “I truly believe we would not be here today without his blessings, grace, and the people he placed into our lives.”

Meyers also thanked those who supported herself and her classmates through their education. She took a moment to remind her classmates that their education is a privilege.

“As you move forward, I think that it is also important to remember that the education we received is a privilege,” she said. “Not everyone in the world gets the chance to sit in a classroom to learn, speak freely, or graduate with opportunities ahead of them. The fact that we are here today is something we should never take for granted.”

Rogers City High School Principal Nicholas Hein invited graduates one-by-one to the stage to receive their diplomas. Afterwards, students let off confetti cannons and blew bubbles to celebrate the occasion.

Kayla Wikaryasz can be reached at 989-358-5688 or kwikaryasz@TheAlpenaNews.com.