Last July 8, 2026 (Wednesday) at the Arizona Financial Theatre, Primavera proudly sent off nearly 1,500 graduates. The Class of 2026 represents students from communities across Arizona who found their academic success through flexible and personalized learning. Primavera is proud to recognize these students as they’ve successfully overcome obstacles to reach graduation. They’ve balanced school with work and/or family responsibilities while also preparing for college, careers, military service, or technical training programs.
The inspiring diversity of our students was made extra visible through the wonderfully decorated graduation caps and gowns that the students personalized. The Arizona Financial Theatre wasn’t just filled with plain caps and gowns, but brightly decorated and personalized caps and gowns that represent each student’s unique personality and heritage.
Crying Before It Even Started
Before the program began, celebration filled the air as a special slideshow played while people entered. The slideshow showcased our students’ baby pictures, school memories, senior pictures, and other meaningful moments captured. The photos were accompanied by short messages congratulating each graduate personally, documenting their favorite moments, and providing words of encouragement. It was a heartwarming commemoration for this year’s electrifying group of young adults. Setting the stage for the celebration they deserve.
To get the program started, principals Dr. Vanessa Threat and Todd Crocket delivered a welcome address. Making the already buzzing students even more excited for this next chapter of their lives.
Powerful Performers
These encouraging speeches were followed by uplifting performances. Matthew Ingerto rocked the stage with an electric guitar rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner”. And 2026 graduate Chayton Dickson performed a blessing dance for the batch’s future endeavors.
It was then time for our wonderful student speakers to take the stage. Risa Collier and Angelina Barraza were chosen to address their batchmates for the morning and afternoon sessions, respectively. Both speakers delivered uplifting and tear-jerking speeches. Reminding their classmates how much life still has in store for their futures and how much it has graced them with in their past.
Class of 2026, Officially Signing Off
With tissues in hand, the commencement address by Jeremy Anderson kicked off the recognition of the graduates. Principal Todd Crocket then handled the charge and presentation of Primavera’s Class of 2026. The students now officially becoming high school graduates.
“Graduation is a culmination of years of hard work and perseverance, and this year’s ceremony is especially meaningful as we celebrate 25 years of helping Arizona students achieve their dreams,” Jessica Pagoulatos, Executive Director of Academics at Primavera Online School shared, “Each graduate has a unique story, and we are honored to celebrate their accomplishments alongside their families, teachers, and communities.”
Double the Gratitude: A Dual Celebration
This momentous day was made extra special as it celebrated 2 things: our wonderful graduates and the 25 years of Primavera’s continued mission to deliver flexible and personalized learning across Arizona. To commemorate this joyous occasion, the media was even invited to document Primavera and the graduates’ success.
This year’s graduation is a testimony to Primavera Online School, Arizona’s longest standing and largest online public charter high school. This moving occasion also reminds each team member how much of an impact their work has. As they say, “it takes a village”, and our devoted village strives to drive our students towards this grand accomplishment. In turn, our students showcase an incredible amount of grit and resilience to get to where they are today.
Through Primavera’s humble beginnings in 2001 to 25 years later, Primavera has helped thousands of Arizona students earn accredited high school diplomas by meeting students where they are through flexible educational opportunities. The Class of 2026 is a testament to this legacy that they will bring with them as they now pursue higher education, skill trades, military service, entrepreneurship, and workforce opportunities.
From beginning to end, the theatre was filled with smiles all around. A great amount of pride circulated the air from the teachers who supported the students every step of the way, the parents who dreamed of this day for their children, and from the students themselves whose determination and steadfastness brought them to this milestone setting them up for future success. Congratulations, Class of 2026!
