As the Hamilton High School Class of 2026 prepares to walk across the stage at commencement, two students are being recognized for reaching the top of their class through years of hard work, dedication and perseverance.
Makenzie Pelletier has been named Valedictorian of the Hamilton High School Class of 2026, while Yosgart Garcia has earned the distinction of Salutatorian.
Pelletier, daughter of Jennifer and Geoff Pelletier, graduated with a 4.18 GPA. During her time at Hamilton High School, she was heavily involved in the school’s band programs, including pep band, jazz band, marching band, pit orchestra and solo & ensemble, along with participating in Science Olympiad. This fall, she plans to attend Grand Valley State University to study Ecology.
Garcia, son of Isaac Garcia Maldonado and Claudia Cardona Lagunas, graduated with a 4.07 GPA and will attend the University of Michigan to pursue a degree in Computer Science. Garcia will also become a first generation college student, something he says means a great deal to both him and his family.
“That opportunity that was given to me means so much for me and my family,” Garcia said. “For first generation reaching university, that’s just an immense experience for everyone involved.”
Both students reflected on the honor of being recognized at the top of a graduating class they describe as hardworking and close-knit.
“Being valedictorian is a really high achievement that I wasn’t necessarily expecting, but I’m really glad that I got to be here,” Pelletier said. “I’m really grateful that I had so many people support me to get to this spot.”
Garcia echoed those thoughts, saying earning the title of salutatorian was both humbling and rewarding.
“I’ve seen my class and how hard they work academically,” Garcia said. “Being in this place is really a privilege for me and my family to be able to say, ‘Hey, I did it.’”
Throughout their time at Hamilton High School, both students credited teachers, classmates and the school community for helping shape their experiences and prepare them for the future.
“I’ve really enjoyed getting to learn about the people around me and the world around me,” Pelletier said. “A lot of my teachers really opened some new doors and opportunities for me.”
Garcia said the support system at Hamilton helped him gain new perspectives and experiences while preparing for life after high school.
“I think they all put a genuine effort into trying to teach and coexist and give me a safe environment,” Garcia said.
As they reflected on the Class of 2026, both students said they believe their classmates will remember the perseverance and growth they experienced together throughout high school.
“Junior and senior year can be really tough, but this class has really persevered,” Pelletier said. “I think we’re going to appreciate putting in the hard work to get to where we are.”
Now, with graduation day arriving, both students are preparing for one final milestone at Hamilton High School — delivering speeches in front of their classmates, families and community during commencement on Thursday, May 21.
“I’m very nervous to give a speech,” Pelletier admitted with a laugh. “I don’t really like talking in front of people, but I hope I can share some words of wisdom with the rest of the class.”
Hamilton Community Schools congratulates Makenzie Pelletier and Yosgart Garcia on their outstanding achievements and wishes them and the entire Class of 2026 continued success in the future.
