Allen High School recently celebrated the 1,772 students in the Class of 2026 during its graduation ceremony, recognizing students for their hard work, perseverance and accomplishments throughout their high school experience.
The ceremony featured remarks from student leaders, district leadership and the class salutatorian and valedictorian. Speakers reflected on the graduates’ shared experiences, thanked families and staff for their support and encouraged the Class of 2026 to move forward with confidence.
Senior Class President Ashlyn Cherian opened her remarks by celebrating the class and acknowledging the challenges students overcame together.
“No matter what challenges may arise, never stop believing in yourself,” said Cherian. “Don’t let anyone, ever define your limits. Always prove them wrong. If someone tells you something can’t be done, be the one who does it.”
Student Body President Han Cho encouraged graduates to recognize the people who supported them throughout their journey.
“Yes, we prevailed, but not only by ourselves,” said Cho. “It was the people around us. Our family, sitting in the stands who always had our backs. Our teachers at school who always pushed us to greatness, and our friends, sitting right beside us, who always supported our endeavors.”
Dr. Polly Montgomery, president of the Allen ISD Board of Trustees, reminded graduates that the milestone represented years of learning, growth and support from the Allen ISD community.
“Seniors, look around this stadium for a second,” said Dr. Montgomery. “Every person in the stands is proud of you. Allen ISD is proud of you. This community will continue to celebrate your success and cheer you on.”
Dr. Robin Bullock, superintendent of schools, spoke about the many opportunities ahead for graduates as they move into military service, trade schools, the workforce or academic programs.
“Graduates, you are entering a world that needs your unique talents,” said Dr. Bullock. “As you look ahead, remember that you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you ever thought possible.”
Salutatorian Chunyue Zheng reflected on resilience, vulnerability and the importance of beginning again, even when the future feels uncertain.
“As we move forward, let’s carry two things with us: the persistence that got us here, and the courage to grow beyond it,” said Zheng. “Let’s remember that it’s okay to not have everything figured out. Let’s remember that we don’t have to be perfect to be worthy.”
Valedictorian Aristaa Bhardwaj spoke about time, growth and the responsibility graduates have as they shape their futures beyond high school.
“When all of us graduates go out into the world, I hope we spend our time in a way that we won’t regret,” said Bhardwaj. “Be the person who looks back years from now and is proud because you were able to make your reality fit the dream you have envisioned after we graduate here tonight.”
Congratulations to the Allen High School Class of 2026 for reaching this milestone and beginning the next chapter in their lives.
