Sulphur Springs Independent School District honored 15 graduates during a commencement ceremony for Austin Academic Center Monday afternoon, May 11, in SSHS Auditorium at Hopkins County Regional Civic Center.
Although two of the members of the AAC Class of 2026 weren't in attendance, each graduate's name was called and the student recognized for achieving all requirements for graduation.
The program began with a welcome from SSISD Superintendent Deana Steeber.
Students marched in to the traditional Pomp and Circumstance.
The colors were presented by two members of Hopkins County Military Coalition.
Students joined family, staff and friends by placing their hands over their hearts as Dr. Robin Boshears sang the National Anthem. 2026 AAC graduate Mattie-Grace McCord gave the invocation.
AAC Class of 2026 graduates were presented by Principal James Payne. SSISD Board of Trustees President Craig Roberts affirmed the students had met all requirements for graduation. Counselor Leslie Harred then called each graduate's name, and Dr. Payne shook each candidate's hand in congratulations while presenting their diploma.
After all had been recognized, the students flipped their tassels, signaling completion of this phase of their lives.
One Church Pastor Denver Hines gave a brief speech and challenge, then offered the benedictory prayer.
Hats flew as Payne announced class is dismissed.
The Austin Academic Center Class of 2026 graduates included Brayden Mitchell Buchanan, Lacey Lynn Criswell, Kyia Marie Godbolt, Miranda Miley Groves, Angel Jeremiah Luna, Lilly Briann Lunceford, Daiana Martinez Ordorica, Mattie-Grace McCord, Elijah James Kai Mims, Juan Guillermo Perez, Jeremiah Lee Porter, Crystal Ramirez, Kendrie Kayelynn Roberts, Emily Ann Rodriguez and Gavin Xavier Roed.