The Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2026 celebrated an academic milestone as they received their diplomas on June 26 at the school’s 118th commencement exercises.  

During the evening ceremony, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst and high school Principal Christopher Herr congratulated the students on their academic, athletic and extracurricular accomplishments and their community service contributions.  

Among those who took the podium were valedictorian Brady Schultz and salutatorian Maiya Boughal. Schultz compared the class’s educational experience to “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” noting that they are now full of knowledge and ready for change. “It is time for us to spread our wings and see the beautiful butterflies we have all become,” he said.

Boughal also offered inspiration and advice, urging her classmates to “go out and make a positive impact and be the reason that someone smiles.”

Emma O’Came read the senior poem “Friends I Wish I Could Keep,” and senior class historian Annabelle Najdzen rounded out the celebration by speaking of class memories and the achievements of her first-generation classmates. In closing, the symphonic choir entertained with a performance of Abba’s “Slipping Through My Fingers.”

After accepting their diplomas and tossing their caps, the graduates joined a final procession off the football field toward their next chapter of success.