26 JUNE 2026 Good News • South Florida Edition Celebrates Graduates 2026 Congratulations to the Class of 2026! In this 10th Annual GOOD NEWS Graduation Section, we applaud the top graduates from 19 of the area’s Christian schools, along with distinguished homeschool students and leaders in faith-based campus ministries such as First Priority and Fellowship of Christian Athletes for their hard work and dedication. These youth are our hope for the future. You’ll hear from eight valedictorians from South Florida’s most distinguished Christian schools below and school administrators. While every graduating class faces its own challenges, Dr. Ronald Farrar, assistant headmaster and upper school principal at Westminster Academy, said “Today’s graduates are stepping into a world that is changing faster than ever before — shaped by artificial intelligence, global connectivity and constant cultural shifts. Yet, this generation remains thoughtful, resilient and eager to make a meaningful impact.” South Florida's Christian school valedictorians are preparing for careers in medicine, engineering, music and other fields, but their ambitions extend beyond professional success. When asked about the lessons they've learned, the challenges they hope to address and the future they envision, a common theme emerged: a desire to serve others with compassion and purpose. A desire to make a difference Ashley Da Cruz, valedictorian at Abundant Life Christian Academy, plans to study medical biology at the University of South Florida and hopes to address what she sees as a growing lack of compassion and care. “So many people feel unseen, hopeless, or alone. As someone who hopes to become a doctor, I want to care for people not only physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well. I hope to make others feel seen, valued, and cared for during some of the hardest moments of their lives.” Marisa Robinson, valedictorian at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, plans to study applied physiology and kinesiology at the University of Florida. Her goal is to become an orthopedic surgeon. “I want to go into the medical field as an orthopedic surgeon to help athletes find their way back to their sports,” Robinson said. Isaac Moore, valedictorian at Highlands Christian Academy, hopes to study mechanical engineering at the University of Florida. Asked what problem he would most like to solve, he pointed to two longstanding social issues. “Poverty and racism are two massive issues I would change if given the opportunity. I believe both of these could truly be reduced through love for one another.” Grace Sabetimani, valedictorian at Westminster Academy, also focused on bringing people together. “If I could solve one problem, I would want to solve the lack of communication between diplomats that causes war,” she said. Lessons beyond the classroom Academic success was only part of what these graduates gained during their high school years. Joshua White, valedictorian at Calvary Christian Academy Fort Lauderdale, said one of the most important lessons he learned was perseverance. “To keep moving forward step by step, even when life becomes difficult. Challenges may slow you down, but perseverance and faith help you continue growing.” For Sahilye Coleman, valedictorian at Calvary Christian Academy Hollywood, the lesson was learning the importance of vulnerability and community. “I learned it’s okay to not be okay. There are people who love and care about you… Allow yourself to be open to everyone and you never know who will be your friend.” Jasmine Cummings, valedictorian at Sheridan Hills Christian School, said she “learned to appreciate the journey rather than obsessing over the end goal.” Grounded in faith While educators acknowledge that today's graduates face challenges previous generations never encountered, they believe faith remains their strongest foundation. “Our modern students have to battle through constant attacks on their identity, both gender identity and social media acceptance,” said Eric Poirot, upper school principal at Highlands Christian Academy. “These issues are difficult for the teenager that is not grounded in their faith.” In this climate of rapid change, Brian Alphenaar, high school principal at Calvary Christian Academy Fort Lauderdale, reminds students that “while technological advances have expanded opportunities and created unique challenges, Jesus remains the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8).” Chris Mitchell, upper school principal at Calvary Christian Academy Hollywood, points graduates to the Word of God, emphasizing, “In a world full of noise, let His truth be the loudest voice guiding your steps and anchoring your heart.” William D. Hood II, high school principal of Boca Raton Christian School and an alum, said, “I see some incredible potential in this graduating class. If they are able to keep their focus on Jesus and His plan for them, they can do amazing things.” That faith is evident in the aspirations of many graduates. For example, Carlos Leon, valedictorian at Boca Raton Christian School, plans to major in commercial music at Liberty University, and said he hopes “to share the gospel and point people to the problem God already solved: sin and death.” His most memorable moments came outside the classroom during mission trips to Utah and Costa Rica. Asked what advice she would now give to freshmen, Cummings said, “to fully trust God rather than rely on your own abilities. He has a perfect plan and cares for you even though you will not always see or understand it.” Westminster Academy Devoted To Christ Dedicated To Excellence Standing left to right: Carlos Leon, Valedictorian, Boca Raton Christian School; Michael Perez, Salutatorian, Calvary Christian Academy Hollywood; Joshua White, Valedictorian, Calvary Christian Academy Fort Lauderdale; Isabella Duda, Salutatorian, Highlands Christian Academy; Christian Diaz, Salutatorian, Calvary Christian Academy Fort Lauderdale; Ryann Mahoney, Salutatorian, Westminster Academy; Grace Sabetimani, Valedictorian, Westminster Academy; Nicholas Waldeck, Salutatorian, Abundant Life Christian Academy; Jasmine Cummings, Valedictorian, Sheridan Hills Christian School; Ashley Da Cruz, Valedictorian, Abundant Life Christian Academy; and Sahilye Coleman, Valedictorian, Calvary Christian Academy Hollywood; Marisa Robinson, Valedictorian, St. Thomas Aquinas High School; and Deven Onore, Salutatorian, St. Thomas Aquinas High School; Kneeling in front: Mckenzie Dunlea, Salutatorian, Boca Raton Christian School; Isaac Moore, Valedictorian, Highlands Christian Academy; Hailey Johnston, Co-Salutatorian, Sheridan Hills Christian School; and Patrishia Arteaga, Co-Salutatorian, Sheridan Hills Christian School. Top Graduates Navigate Change with Faith and Purpose Shelly Pond GOOD NEWS Editor Photo Credit: Luis Feliz
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