Forestville High School's Class of 2026 rang the bell at the school one last time on Saturday. The district's commencement ceremony served as a celebration of their hard work and a turning point for the next chapter in their stories.
Salutatorian Anna Gilman recounted fun memories from kindergarten to senior year, saying "As I was brainstorming what to write for this speech, I started thinking about all our accomplishments here at Forestville. Both individually and as a class, we have made quite the impact. I mean, practically the whole staff here at Forestville has confirmed what we already knew to be true: that we are the best class they've ever had and will be greatly missed after today. However, I don't think that this is because of our collective impressive awards, honors, or good grades. It is because of something much greater. The kindness, joy, and love that we exemplified every day. That's what will be remembered."
The salutatorian's speech was followed by the commencement address from Forestville alumnus Kathleen Heckman. The Class of 1988 graduate currently serves as the Vice President for University Advancement at the University at Buffalo. Heckman said, "Growing up in a small community like Forestville gives you something powerful -- even if you don't fully realize it yet. And, if I'm being honest, I don't think I did when I sat where you sit today. This is a place where people show up. Where hard work matters. Where responsibility isn’t optional, and kindness isn't rare. You've learned how to contribute, how to help one another, how to take pride in doing things the right way -- not the easy way. These are not simply small-town values. They are life values. And no matter where you go next, these values will steady you."
In her valedictorian address, Giulianna Patton emphasized the importance of being part of a close-knit community. She said, "Throughout my time in high school, I have come to realize that one of the most important things to have in life is a strong community, which is exactly what we have in Forestville. Our connections lead to a greater sense of belonging and purpose. And while our time to belong in Forestville may be coming to an end, it is not without a lesson well learned: community is the foundation for what makes achievement possible." Patton also encouraged her classmates to make new community connections as they embark on their next chapter.
Board of Education President Andrea Spengler and Superintendent John O'Connor presented diplomas to the Forestville Class of 2026 before they turned the tassel. Then the graduates headed outside for the traditional bell-ringing ceremony, signifying the end of the school year and their days at Forestville Central School.
Click here for the full graduation ceremony.
Photo by the Forestville Central School District
