May 21, 2026, Seward Folly

Seward High School celebrated the graduation of 43 seniors on Tuesday night, the largest class in recent years. Of these graduates, 22 attended Seward schools from kindergarten through senior year, and 14 are children of SHS alumni. The class of 2026 distinguished itself by earning over $1 million in scholarships.

Graduation festivities began with a parade through downtown and a barbecue at Branson Pavilion, followed by traditions like the annual elementary school walk, a senior skip day, and a prank featuring a gold-plated car and a live fish.

Photos by Nickole Lyon

Notably, the week’s celebrations preceded a closing ceremony at Seward Middle School, the same building many graduates attended. The middle school is shutting its doors due to declining enrollment and significant budget constraints faced by the district.

The graduation ceremony packed the high school gym, honoring valedictorian Makena Rose DesErmia and salutatorian Madeleine Barbara Haas. Social studies teacher Chad Hinders gave the commencement address. The evening included student musical performances and a slideshow of the graduates, closing out a memorable week for the class of 2026.