Grads focus on perseverance, community

BELLEVUE – Gathering at First National Bank Field on Friday evening for the 151st commencement ceremony, Bellevue High School's graduating seniors reflected on the perseverance that brought them to the finish line. Class of 2026 president Brock Meacham delivered the class address, focusing on the friendships, memories and laughs the students shared over the past four years. He noted that the campus became a true home and a permanent part of their collective story because the class consistently supported one another. "If I had to choose one phrase that defines our journeys, aspirations and memories, it would be, 'Keep showing up,'" Meacham said. He reminded his peers that they succeeded because they refused to give up on themselves. "We have shown that we are resilient, capable and most of all proud to be part of the Bellevue community," Meacham added. "Whatever brought us here will take us farther." Principal Nate Artino welcomed the crowd and praised the graduates for their positive impact on the local community. "You leave high school in a better place," Artino said. "This is not simply the end, but a beginning of your opportunity to move the world around you." Superintendent Troy Roth, who is retiring after 33 years in education, offered his own words of encouragement. "As superintendent for the past four years, it was my pleasure to watch your journey," Roth said. "You are entering a new arena. In the end, you will know the triumph of high achievement." Amid the celebration, attendees also took time for quiet reflection. The crowd observed a moment of silence and released red and white balloons in honor of Lincoln Gilbert, a classmate who passed away in the first grade but remained a cherished part of the Class of 2026. Rounding out the evening's special recognitions, the president and CEO of First National Bank presented Caleb Martin and Kaylee Smith with awards naming them the top male and female scholars. Bellevue High School Class of 2026 • 150 graduates — 50% enrolling in four-year schools — 15% entering employment — 11% enrolling in two-year/tech schools — 11% enrolling in trade, nursing school or apprenticeship — 10% undecided — 3% enlisting in the military • About $402,500 accepted in scholarship money across 189 awarded scholarships