BONNERS FERRY — Under gray skies, brisk winds and occasional sprinkles of rain, Bonners Ferry High School’s Class of 2026 crossed the stage Saturday, May 30, as they entered their future.  

Surrounded by family, friends and community members, 82 graduates celebrated years of hard work, perseverance and achievement. 

Despite the chilly weather, the football field remained filled with applause, laughter, and emotion as graduates in their caps and gowns marked the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. 

Principal Lisa Iverson reminded students that the journey to graduation was not always easy, but each graduate had earned the moment before them. 

“Today is the moment you have earned,” she told the graduates. “It represents years of hard work, growth, challenges, lessons and accomplishments.” 

She encouraged students to remain grounded as they move into the next stage of life. 

“Whether you're headed to college, the military, the workforce, a trade, or you're still figuring out what your next step is, know this: you are capable, and you are ready.” 

Senior class president Micah Thomson reflected on the accomplishments of the class, highlighting success in academics, athletics and the workforce, while also praising the class for its ability to remain steady through challenges. 

“One thing I respect most about our class is that success was everywhere, but it never looked the same for everyone,” Thomson said. “Some people chased scholarships, some worked jobs after school, some earned college credits, some competed in sports, and some just showed up every single day, worked hard quietly, and never needed recognition.” 

Thomson’s speech was briefly interrupted by the windy conditions when his graduation cap blew away mid-speech, drawing laughter from the crowd. He used the moment to reinforce his message. 

“Our class proved that we know how to adapt,” he said. “Stay grounded and keep moving forward.” 

Salutatorian Paige Sartell reflected on the memories that shaped the class over the years, recalling everything from Badger Olympics to shared classroom moments and the personalities of teachers who helped guide students along the way. 

“We have all matured and grown in ways I never thought was possible for a class,” Sartell said. “Never forget these years in high school. Never forget the challenges you faced.” 

Guest speaker Alec Hamilton encouraged graduates to embrace uncertainty and growth as they move forward. 

“Your best moments are not behind you,” Hamilton said. “Your biggest accomplishments have not yet happened. The person you are becoming is still being built.” 

Valedictorian Jane Moellmer brought both humor and heart to the ceremony, sharing advice gathered from kindergarten students and local senior citizens before offering her own message to classmates. 

“The world has a way of telling us who to be and how to be it,” Moellmer said. “Do not let it tell you what you are or what you should be. Decide who, what and how you want to be.” 

The Class of 2026 leaves Bonners Ferry High School with plans stretching in many directions, from universities and trade schools to military service, careers and travel, but Saturday’s ceremony reflected the common bond built during their years together in Bonners Ferry. 

As tassels were turned and graduates tossed their caps into the windy afternoon sky, cheers from family and friends echoed across the field, celebrating not only diplomas earned, but the futures waiting ahead. 

    Salutatorian Paige Sartell holds onto her cap as strong winds sweep across the stage during her graduation speech.  

    Valedictorian Jane Moellmer addresses the Bonners Ferry High School Class of 2026 during Saturday’s graduation ceremony.  

    Class President Micah Thomson speaks to the Bonners Ferry High School Class of 2026 during Saturday’s graduation ceremony.