With four years of newfound perspective, knowledge and an appreciation for moments that shape lasting memories, Early College High School’s Class of 2026 is ready to take a giant leap into a future of boundless opportunity.
The Lions, 202 strong, donning black caps with gold tassels and black gowns, completed the requirements to graduate and celebrated their achievement during Wednesday night’s commencement ceremony inside Cadence Bank Center in Belton.
“The future holds endless possibilities for each and every one of us,” senior class president Abigail Perales said while greeting her classmates, and welcoming their guests, Early College faculty and Killeen ISD administrators. “Some of us know exactly where we’re going and some of us are still figuring it out. But, either way, we are all stepping into something new.”
View more photos on the KISD Flickr page: www.killeenisd.org/photos.
The Class of 2026 from Early College is entering that “new” with energy, with hope and with hearts full of gratitude.
From the podium, salutatorian Thomas Pauley encouraged his fellow graduates to harness that drive and excitement as they embark upon their next endeavors.
“Whether you are going to college, university, trade school, the military, or you are not quite sure yet, I want to leave you with one piece of wisdom: Keep the momentum,” Pauley implored.
“Whatever you choose to do next, come at it with a head of steam. Because if there is anything you need to know about momentum, it is that the more you have, the harder you are to stop. Never take a step backward, never let the haters dictate who you are, and never not give your all.”
Their efforts and resiliency ultimately earned them a diploma, in the case of more than half of the seniors (131), an associate degree as well, and, collectively, a whopping $7.3 million in academic scholarships.
However, they weren’t alone in the process. Along the way, parents, grandparents and other family members aided them through formative years while teachers inspired and empowered them with vital classroom instruction.
Valedictorian Maxymus Channan made sure to thank more than 20 teachers, family members and friends. But he saved one special shout out for his dad.
“God knows all he has sacrificed for me. He is my why. He is the one who’s got me,” Channan said. “And now to all of you, look around. Who’s your why? Who’s got you? Once you see them, cherish them. They are once in a lifetime.”
The four years of high school only come around once, too. Channan told his peers to take what’s been learned and apply it and reach for their full potential.
“In this room right now, I see future industry leaders, medical professionals, educators, and amazing human beings,” he said. “Today, it is our time to shoot for the stars and never look back.”
Like a lion itself, with every name read aloud a huge roar echoed from the seats above. And after the final graduate walked the stage, student council president Kahlia Gentles reminded everyone to never forget who they are or from where they came.
“Graduation is not the end of our stories. It is the start of a new chapter filled with new people, new opportunities, and endless possibilities,” she said. “No matter where life takes us after tonight, never let fear stop you from becoming the person you’ve worked so hard to be.”
Five more commencements are upcoming this week in Killeen Independent School District.
Harker Heights (9 a.m.), Killeen High (2 p.m.) and Shoemaker (7 p.m.) are scheduled for Friday, May 29, with Chaparral (2 p.m.) and Ellison (7 p.m.) set for Saturday, May 30, at Cadence Bank Center.