SAUGUS — The weather was perfect as families and friends gathered at the Christie Serino Jr. Athletic Sports Complex Friday evening to watch Saugus High School’s Class of 2026 earn their diplomas.

Students processed to their chairs and were serenaded by the school’s honors chorus. Tonal Chaos sang the national anthem, followed by “Ribs” by Lorde.

The welcoming speech was delivered by class President Maria Silva, who focused on the journey that brought the class to that moment.

“I have had the honor of being your class president for the past four years, which means I’ve had a front-row seat to it all, the good, the stressful, and a few moments that probably should be left out of a graduation speech,” Silva said, noting that much of the class has been together since kindergarten.

Silva teared up as she thanked her parents for the sacrifices they made to get her to where she is.

“If there’s one thing I learned from being your president and growing up with all of you, it’s this: We always show up for one another, no matter what – clubs, teams, friend groups, or interests – we were a part of. We never let those things divide us,” she said.

Next to speak was Salutatorian Zenera Shahu, who said she was honored to speak during such a pivotal moment.

“As memories of your hardships flash through your minds, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on the people who were there for you during them. For me, that includes my mom, who has been there quizzing me with my flashcards late into the night, and my dad, who has worked tirelessly to support my dreams,” she said.

Shahu told her classmates that some of her most memorable moments over the past four years came from stepping out of her comfort zone, telling fellow graduates to push themselves to do the hard work, even if they are scared, exhausted, and nervous.

Valedictorian Evelyn Meas was next to the podium, where she asked her parents and grandmother to stand, saying she would never ask for another family even in a million lifetimes.

“I’m sure most, if not all of us, are extremely eager to move on to the next chapter of our lives, and I am too, so I’ll try to make this short. It took us four years, but we did it. And I hope you guys are very proud of yourselves,” Meas said.

School Committee Chair Tom Whittredge spoke next, congratulating the class, including his son Brody Whittredge.

“What stands out the most about all of you is not just your accomplishments, but your resilience. Your kindness and the way you support one another. You’ve become a group of young adults that your families, your teachers, and the entire community can be proud of,” he said.

Superintendent Mike Hashem told the class he was proud to be there and focused his speech on something he had said to the staff in his opening-day message.

“I compared teaching and learning to free solo climbing. Some might argue it was a bit of a stretch, and they may not be entirely wrong, but today, as you sit here preparing to graduate, your journey ahead actually looks a lot more like a free solo climb than anything that you’ve done before,” he said.

He told students that over the last four years, the students have had the support of the staff and those who believed in them.

“Today, that does not disappear, but it does change. You are now high school graduates, and the next phase of your climb begins… My hope is during your time here, you’ve acquired more than (just) credits and a diploma. I hope you’ve gained the knowledge, skills, confidence, and character needed to continue your climb,” Hashem said. “…Congratulations, class of 2026, keep climbing.”

Last to speak was Principal Dr. Carla Scuzzarella, who asked student Braylon Ponce to stand and be recognized for his decision to join the U.S. Marine Corps.

Scuzzarella then began her speech, using Star Wars as the theme.

“So, long ago in a galaxy far, far away, I’m sure most of you recognize that is the opening crawl of every Star Wars movie… Star Wars has captivated generations because its stories and characters reflect challenges we all face,” she said.

Scuzzarella then brought up the teachings Yoda gave Luke Skywalker, comparing them to the teachings passed on to the students at Saugus High School.

“Through that support, you have grown more independent, more responsible, and more confident, but as Yoda reminds Luke: ‘Much to learn you still have,’ this is just the beginning,” she said.

Students then received their diplomas and celebrated by tossing their caps and finding their families and friends in the crowd.