Members of the Dixon Unified School District Governing Board were in attendance, including President Julian Cuevas, Vice President Regina Espinoza, Clerk Jewel Fink, trustees John Gabby and Robert Sanchez, and Superintendent Brett Barley. Photo by Nicolas Brown

DIXON, CA (MPG) - Maine Prairie High School honored its graduating Class of 2026 during a commencement ceremony held 6 p.m. June 3 at Dixon Performing Arts Center, 555 College Way.

The ceremony began with the traditional playing of “Pomp and Circumstance” as the 18 graduates entered the venue. Members of the Dixon Unified School District Governing Board were in attendance, including President Julian Cuevas, Vice President Regina Espinoza, Clerk Jewel Fink, trustees John Gabby and Robert Sanchez, and Superintendent Brett Barley.

Graduate Logen Barr led the Pledge of Allegiance before Principal Angelina Arias welcomed families, staff members, district personnel and community partners.

Student speakers Leah Lopez and Nalleli Cabanillas-Medina addressed their classmates and families before Arias delivered remarks in both English and Spanish.

“Good evening family, staff, distinguished guests, but most importantly, the class of 2026,” said Arias. “There's something important I want you to know: your story is not defined by where you started, but by the fact that you kept going. Here you are, not because the road was easy, not because everything went according to plan, but because you refused to quit.”

Arias later recognized Office Coordinator Denise Diaz for creating a slideshow featuring baby photos of graduates alongside their senior portraits. The presentation, accompanied by music, also highlighted each student's plans after graduation. The video concluded with a congratulatory message to the graduating class.

Following the slideshow, Arias thanked Diaz and the graduates for sharing their photos before inviting teachers and staff members to speak about individual students.

English, Art and English Language Development (ELD) teacher Lindsey Balidoy addressed several graduates, including Ryan West and Eden Henderson.

“Ryan, you did it, congratulations,” said Balidoy. “While I know you have been enjoying being out of high school, I hope you continue to find the light and humor in everyday life.”

Speaking about Henderson, Balidoy said, “You are the one who took charge of your education, you are the one who knew exactly where you wanted to go and got there.”

Arias noted that several students completed graduation requirements ahead of schedule.

“We have several juniors graduating tonight because they put themselves on a fast track to success,” said Arias. “We have a lot to celebrate here tonight.”

Math teacher Andrea Ferguson praised Cabanillas-Medina, who plans to join the U.S. Marine Corps.

“I am so excited having you up here on the stage with me right now,” said Ferguson. “You're joining the Marine Corps and you're going to be awesome at it.”

Ferguson also delivered remarks on behalf of Social Science teacher Jairo Romero, who was unable to attend.

Science, Physical Education and Virtual Reality teacher Dina Flamik recognized several graduates, including Liam Bourland and Lopez.

“Everything you turned in was thoughtful, creative and exceptionally well done,” Flamik told Lopez. “The world needs people who can tell stories.”

Balidoy later returned to the stage to speak on Romero’s behalf about graduates Hailey Troyer and Barr.

“From the very beginning, Barr carried himself with maturity, consistency and a calm confidence,” said Balidoy. “There was honestly never a day he wasn't engaged in classroom discussion.”

Bilingual Communication School Liaison Susanna Perez spoke about Rachel Chavez, noting that she completed her studies early.

“Not only is she graduating, she is also graduating as a junior,” said Perez.

At-Promise Counselor Ricardo Rodriguez recognized Juan Roberto Lopez Alvarez and Ernesto Raygoza Martinez, another early graduate.

As the ceremony neared its conclusion, Arias asked the audience to applaud the graduating seniors.

“You all have your individual stories, you all have your own reasons for coming to Maine Prairie, and we're so proud of you,” she said.

Arias then formally certified the class and presented the graduates to those in attendance.

“It is my honor to present the Maine Prairie High School graduating class of 2026,” said Arias.

The Class of 2026 concluded the evening by crossing the stage and celebrating the milestone with loved ones.