The Pahranagat Valley High School Class of 2026 gathered Sunday evening, May 3, for their baccalaureate service — an evening centered on reflection, faith and the journey that has brought them to this moment.

Held at 5 p.m., the service lasted approximately 40 minutes and provided a quiet, meaningful pause before graduation festivities. Family, friends and community members filled the church, showing their continued support for the students they’ve watched grow up over the years.

As the graduates entered during the processional, there was a noticeable sense of pride and anticipation. The program, directed by Samantha Mathews with Alivia Walch conducting, blended music and messages that spoke to both gratitude and the future ahead.

The evening opened with “My Country ’Tis of Thee,” followed by an invocation by Jesse Stewart. Guest speaker Lynette Thiriot shared words of encouragement about vision and valor. 

The senior girls sang and performed “I Am a Child of God,” accompanied by Teresa Mathews. 

Paul Mathews also addressed the graduates, offering insight and perspective, while the closing hymn “Amazing Grace” brought a sense of peace and unity to the room. L.E. Hatch gave the benediction, and the ceremony concluded with a recessional as the Class of 2026 exited together.

Following the service, the celebration continued at Pahranagat Valley High School with the annual senior tea. During the gathering, seniors were given information about their upcoming graduation trip before taking part in a lighthearted, memorable activity. Each student had previously submitted responses sharing their most embarrassing memory, favorite memory and the most influential person in their life. The responses were read aloud one at a time by Michael Strong, senior class advisor, as those in attendance laughed, reflected and tried to guess which senior each story belonged to.

The evening wrapped up with a slideshow created by the yearbook class, highlighting moments and memories from the students’ years together — bringing both smiles and a few emotional moments as the reality of graduation draws near.

This year’s graduating class includes Kasen Aiello, Bentlie Bundy, Hayden Canning, Camryn Canning, Carlos Flores Magdaleno, Todd Hansen, L.E. Hatch, Flint Higbee, Colin Howard, Brock Lasike, Melissa Marshall, Samantha Mathews, Paisley McVey, Daniel Miller, Morgan Miller, Libby Minick, Ember Moffitt, Kristopher Nold, Ryan Nygren, Heidi Shumway, Shada Spencer, Steven Spendlove, Jesse Stewart, Trevor Thiriot and Alivia Walch.

In the printed program, students expressed appreciation to their parents, teachers and community, recognizing the many people who have supported them along the way. They also shared gratitude for the faith leaders who have helped guide them through both challenges and growth.

The baccalaureate service and senior tea together reflected not just the end of a chapter but the shared memories, laughter and support these students will carry with them into the future.