UPLAND – Cheers, applause, and proud smiles filled Toyota Arena as Upland Unified School District celebrated the achievements of 732 graduates from Upland and Hillside high schools during its Class of 2026 commencement ceremony on June 4.

Family members, friends, educators, and community supporters gathered to honor the graduates as they crossed the stage and embarked on the next chapter of their educational and professional journeys. The ceremony featured musical performances by Upland High School’s (UHS) Combined Concert Band, Choir, Chorale, Madrigals, and the Upland Pipe Band, creating a memorable sendoff for the graduating class.

The evening opened with remarks from Associated Student Body (ASB) President Victoria Liu and included presentations by Upland High Principal Martin Gomez and Hillside High Principal Hector Vasquez. Student speakers reflected on the friendships, experiences, and mentors who helped shape their high school years.

The Class of 2026 also played a significant role in Upland High School earning designation as a 2026 California Distinguished School, one of the state’s highest honors for educational excellence. Their academic achievement, engagement, and commitment to excellence helped contribute to the recognition, which celebrates schools demonstrating exceptional student performance and success.

UHS valedictorian Evan Bravo, who earned a 4.95 GPA and plans to attend Stanford University to pursue a career in medicine, encouraged his classmates to cherish the relationships they have built throughout their educational journey.

“Life is not a path that can be walked alone,” Bravo said. “No matter where your journey is headed, be the master of your own destiny, and walk alongside those headed in the same direction.”

UHS salutatorian Sophia Reyes, who earned a 4.91 GPA with plans to attend UCLA, joined Senior Class President Jurnee Campbell in honoring the memory of former ASB Director Greg Lander, whose impact continues to inspire Upland High students.

A defining accomplishment of the Class of 2026 was the success of Upland Unified’s inaugural U’College Academy graduating class from UHS. Sixteen students completed the innovative early college program and earned associate degrees while simultaneously fulfilling high school graduation requirements, with two students earning two associate degrees. Their achievement reflects the District’s commitment to expanding opportunities for students to accelerate their academic journeys and graduate prepared for college, careers, and beyond.

In addition, 46 Upland High students were among Chaffey College’s 111 dual enrollment graduates, the highest number of any participating high school.

“The Class of 2026 has demonstrated remarkable resilience, determination, and commitment to excellence throughout their educational journey,” Day said. “We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make in their colleges, careers, communities, and beyond.”

Members of the Class of 2026 will continue their education at institutions across the country, including Stanford University, UCLA, University of California campuses, California State University campuses, community colleges, trade and technical programs, and the armed forces.

As the ceremony concluded with the turning of their tassels and the celebratory bursts of confetti, graduates left Toyota Arena carrying with them the knowledge, skills, and memories that will guide them toward future success.

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

UUSD_GRADUATION1: Upland High School Valedictorian Evan Bravo addresses the Class of 2026 during Upland Unified School District’s commencement ceremony at Toyota Arena on June 4.

UUSD_GRADUATION2: Graduates celebrate during the finale of Upland Unified School District’s Class of 2026 commencement ceremony at Toyota Arena on June 4.