'Enjoy the little things in life': Plains celebrates Class of 2026

Twenty-four members of the graduating class of Plains High School gathered with friends and family to celebrate the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

Of those graduates, five plan to attend four-year colleges, while two will pursue degrees at two-year schools. Students Brock Ryan and Max Baxter have chosen military service for their future careers, while 14 graduates plan to enter the workforce. 

The afternoon ceremony began with remarks from Plains Mayor Chris Allen. 

Class Salutatorian Randie Kilgore reflected on the shared accomplishment of the graduating class. 

“I want to begin by acknowledging that this moment isn’t mine alone,” Kilgore said. “It belongs to every student sitting beside me who has dedicated the last 12 years of their life to this very moment. To every parent who encouraged us, supported us and advocated for us along the way. To every teacher and staff member who believed in us even when we didn’t quite believe in ourselves.” 

Plains School Superintendent Dr. Kathleen Walsh delivered her final commencement speech before retiring. During the ceremony, Walsh introduced the winner of the Unsung Hero Award. 

“There are those people who don’t wear uniforms or carry radios, who don’t have lights or sirens around them, but rather walk quietly and humbly among us doing acts of goodness and kindness, being of service when it is needed most,” Walsh said. “They go about their business seeking no recognition. They do good for goodness’ sake.” 

Walsh presented the Unsung Hero Award to Samantha Babb. 

The graduation speaker for this year’s ceremony was Liam Purcell. 

A unique situation during this year’s ceremony resulted in two students sharing the title of valedictorian: Kalli Tuma and Kalem Ercanbrack. 

During their combined speech, both students offered advice to future graduates. Tuma reflected on a quote printed on a coffee cup her mother received years ago. 

“When I was around 10 years old, my mom was given a coffee cup that said, ‘Enjoy the little things in life because one day you’ll look back and realize they were the big things,’” Tuma said. “I remember the big things, but the little moments, like all the lunch dates with my friends, are now the most meaningful memories to me. So after four years of high school, my advice to upcoming seniors is this: work hard without taking life too seriously, and enjoy the ride, because high school will soon be behind you and a whole new chapter will be waiting ahead.” 

Ercanbrack shared a quote from the book "A Walk with Prudence" by Jason Versey. 

“Friction is necessary. Ease of life leads to complacency, and the atrophy of the human will and spirit. Within our struggles lives our strength, within our trials lives our triumphs.” 

High School Counselor Tyrel Allen continued a time-honored tradition by recognizing Baxter and Ryan for their commitment to military service. Allen also presented awards recognizing academic achievement, citizenship and service to the school. Ercanbrack and Kilgore each received a $500 scholarship as recipients of the Class Award. 

Diplomas were presented by Board Trustee Colleen McCarthy. 

A total of $145,046 in scholarships was awarded to five students this year. Ercanbrack received scholarships from 14 different institutions, while Tuma earned scholarships from eight organizations. Kilgore received four awards, and senior class president Macey Malmend received scholarships from four organizations. Eleanor Bebb also received support from three organizations receiving the largest amount of scholarships given out for the class of 2026 at $79,000.00.

    Plains High School's Brock Ryan celebrates his graduation. He plans to join the Marines. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
  

    Plains Mayor Chris Allen gives the opening welcome speech during the Plains High School 2026 commencement ceremony. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
  

    Plains High School Class of 2026 Salutatorian Randie Kilgore. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)