Family members, friends and community supporters packed the gym at Yantis Independent School District on Saturday evening, May 23, as 27 seniors crossed the stage during commencement ceremonies for the Yantis High School Class of 2026.

The evening was filled with celebration, reflection and heartfelt gratitude as students, teachers and administrators looked back on the class’s journey and ahead to the future waiting beyond graduation.

During opening remarks, Yantis ISD Superintendent Dr. James Cowley thanked the Yantis ISD Board of Education, along with veterans, active-duty military personnel and first responders in attendance.

Superintendent Cowley also recognized the many honors represented by the students’ cords and regalia, including achievements in academics, athletics, FFA, welding, culinary arts, esports, dual-credit coursework and the school’s barbecue team, which will compete nationally in June.

Salutatorian Mirian Jimenez reflected on the growth she and her classmates experienced over the years.

“Today is the day we have all been anticipating for many years, a day that marks not just our accomplishments, but also our growth as individuals,” Jimenez said.

A proud first-generation Mexican American, Jimenez also thanked her family in both English and Spanish, expressing gratitude for their sacrifices and encouragement throughout her education.

Valedictorian Abril Hernandez spoke about perseverance, friendship and defining success beyond awards and grades.

“What defines us is everything people didn’t see: the late nights, the stress, the failures, the moments we doubted ourselves and the courage it took to keep going anyway,” Hernandez said.

Hernandez also honored her immigrant parents, dedicating her accomplishments to the sacrifices they made to provide opportunities for their family.
The class selected teacher Lauren Hudson-McDonald to deliver the commencement address. Hudson-McDonald, who said she had taught many of the students since third grade, mixed humor with heartfelt advice while reflecting on years spent watching the class grow up.

“My little babies, it has been one of the greatest joys of my life watching you grow into young adults,” Hudson-McDonald told the graduates.

She encouraged students to value kindness, lean on family and friends, trust God during difficult times and “choose your hard” when facing life’s challenges.
As the ceremony drew to a close, Dr. Cowley reminded graduates that their diplomas represented not an ending, but the beginning of new opportunities.

“You determine your destiny,” Dr. Cowley told the class before officially conferring diplomas. “You have the ability to make your life what it needs to be and what you want it to be.”

With cheers echoing throughout the packed gym, the Yantis High School Class of 2026 officially became alumni.