News Photo by Steve Schulwitz The ACES Academy Class of 2026 is pictured at their graduation ceremony on Wednesday evening at Art in the Loft.

ALPENA – ACES Academy honored its Class of 2026 with a heartfelt graduation ceremony on Wednesday at Art in the Loft, celebrating the accomplishments of 31 students.

The program highlighted the school’s mission: “ACES Academy is a learning community focused on preparing students for individual success.” This guiding principle was evident throughout the evening as students, families, and staff reflected on the graduates’ journeys.

The class flowers – peonies and orchids – symbolized growth and beauty, while the class song, Green Day’s “Good Riddance” (Time of Your Life), provided a nostalgic and uplifting soundtrack. Two inspiring class quotes captured the spirit of the day: “Keep calm, take a breath, and prepare for what’s next” and “Dream big graduation is just a new beginning to life.”

In a special message to the graduates, the ACES Academy team shared:

“Congratulations, ACES Academy Class of 2026. It has been an absolute privilege to watch you grow, overcome challenges, and finally reach this incredible milestone. As you move forward, remember that the same resilience and creativity you showed here will carry you through whatever comes next. The world is waiting for your unique voices and your hard work. Stay curious, be kind, and never forget how far you’ve already come. We are so proud of you and can’t wait to see the mark you make on the world.”

The ceremony also included special thanks to parents and guardians, the Board of Education, administration, teachers and staff, and community partners such as Art in the Loft, Denise Cooper, Kris Copping, Barb Whiteman, and Brandon Robertson.

Graduates Taylor Lasik, Adrianna Gilmore, and Payge Green-Cronkright each had the opportunity to speak about their experience at ACES academy and their future endeavors.

Several graduates were announced as the recipients of four different awards: the Laura Stibitz Award, the Excellence award, the Follow your Dream Award, and the Shining Stars Award.

The guest speaker at the ceremony was Ryan Fairchild, a former ACES graduate himself.

As the class of 2026 turns the page, they carry with them the support of a dedicated school community and the encouragement to dream big and embrace new beginnings.

Congratulations to all 31 graduates.