The West Haven High School Class of 2026 officially turned the page on their high school journey during graduation ceremonies held on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at Ken Strong Stadium. After a cloudy start to the day, the skies cleared just in time for graduates, families, and staff to gather on the field for a memorable evening celebrating the accomplishments of the senior class.
A total of 490 graduates were recognized as they walked across the stage and received their diplomas. The Class of 2026 leaves West Haven High School ready to begin their next chapters. Graduates will take many different paths, with some serving in the military, entering the workforce, attending trade schools, or continuing their education at colleges and universities across the country, from Harvard University to the University of Southern California and everywhere in between.
Right — Congratulations and best wishes were part of the post-graduation scene before leaving Ken Strong Stadium.
The ceremony featured messages from district and city leaders who encouraged graduates to carry the lessons they learned at West Haven High School into the future.
Principal Rob Bohan reflected on the special connection between the graduating class and West Haven High School, reminding students that their school will always remain a part of their story. “They say nothing and no one is perfect, but today I challenge that idea. Right here, right now, in this moment, within the confines of this venue, you are perfect to all of us. You are, quite simply, perfect. Don’t ever forget that West Haven High School is, and always will be, another home for you. Be proud Westies, and remember: once a Blue Devil, always a Blue Devil. From the bottom of my heart, I congratulate you.”
Mayor Borer shared her pride in the graduating class and reminded students to believe in themselves as they move forward. “I am proud of each and everyone of you. As you stand on the edge of your future take what you have learned from this journey which is resilience, kindness, and the courage to keep pushing on no matter what obstacle comes your way. Tonight you walk on this stage as a high school student and walk off into the world of possibilities. You have a blank canvas and you can write the next chapter of your story. Trust in yourself, now sitting here tonight you know you can achieve whatever goals you have set your mind to. Graduates, West Haven believes in you. Thank you.”
Superintendent of West Haven Public Schools Neil Cavallaro encouraged graduates to view commencement as a new beginning and reminded them that their experiences have prepared them for what comes next. “You’ve reached a milestone in your life. Be proud of everything you’ve accomplished and excited for what lies ahead. Today marks a fresh start. Commencement is a beginning, an opportunity to learn new things, embrace new experiences, and explore the unknown. At times, the uncertainty of what comes next may feel intimidating. Whether you’re continuing your education, serving in our military, or beginning your career, have confidence in yourself and trust in your abilities. Understand that every experience leading up to this moment, both the successes and the challenges, has prepared you for the journey ahead. Know that everyone in the West Haven community is rooting for your success. We believe in you, and we look forward to seeing all that you will accomplish. And when you do, make sure you come back and tell us about it.”
Student leaders also shared reflections on their time at West Haven High School. Class President Elena Curtis, who will continue her education at Clemson University, spoke about the friendships and memories that will remain with the Class of 2026. “Though we are all heading in different directions, the memories of friendships we have made here will always stay with us, No matter where life takes us our time spent at West Haven High will be such a special part of our lives I can’t wait to see where everyone ends up at our reunion 10 years from now.”
Valedictorian Hudson Axelrod, who will attend Quinnipiac University, spoke about the support system that helped each graduate reach this moment. “As I look around today, I see a class filled with talented, hardworking, and determined individuals. Although we are headed down different paths in life, we all share one thing in common: none of us got here alone. Behind every student sitting here today are parents, siblings, teachers, coaches, mentors, and loved ones who have supported us through every success and setback. Let us never forget the people who helped guide us along the way, because the reality is that we did not make this journey alone. I challenge all of us in the Class of 2026 to hold ourselves to a higher standard, continue pursuing our goals with determination, and most importantly, never forget the values and the people who helped bring us to this stage today.”
Salutatorian Carly Morabito, who will attend Clemson University, closed out the student speeches by reflecting on the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. “As we close this chapter and begin the next, I want to leave you with a quote that has stuck with me: ‘Take pride in how far you’ve come and have faith in how far you can go.’ To the Class of 2026, we should be proud of everything that we have accomplished over the last four years, but even more excited for everything that is still ahead of us. I can’t wait to see where life takes each of us and all the achievements in the years to come. No matter where we go next, we’ll always share this moment and the memories that got us here. Congratulations!”
Before the turning of the tassel, Principal Rob Bohan took a moment to honor Christopher Fidalgo-Pugh, who passed away unexpectedly in December of 2023. Christopher was in 10th grade at the time and would have been on track to graduate with the Class of 2026. As his name was remembered, students and the crowd erupted in cheers, sharing a moment of reflection and making sure Christopher’s memory was part of the celebration.
Following the turning of the tassel, the Class of 2026 was officially announced as graduates of West Haven High School. As the newest Blue Devils celebrated this milestone, the sky above Ken Strong Stadium was filled with caps soaring through the air, marking another successful chapter for West Haven High School and the beginning of a new journey for its graduates.
The Class of 2026 leaves West Haven High School carrying the memories of their time together and the support of everyone who helped them reach this moment. Their journey continues beyond graduation, and the West Haven community looks forward to seeing all they accomplish in the years ahead.
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