Berlin Central School District holds Class of 2026 commencement

David Burnsley, principal of Berlin Middle High School, opened the Class of 2026 commencement by asking student Tegan Berry to lead the Pledge of Allegiance and delivering a commencement address that praised studentsor their growth, character and community contributions. Burnsley introduced salutatorian Valentina Popoff (final average 97.04), who will attend Queens College, and valedictorian Lillian Von Schilligu (final average 98.75), who will attend SUNY Binghamton.

Guest speakers and honorees included a brief address from a district speaker who thanked families and staff, the Berlin Middle High School chorus led by Gretchen Modeset, and a commencement address from retired teacher Amy Cornell, who reflected on change, progress and kindness. Superintendent Ken Rizzo accepted the faculty and administration esignation and conferred diplomas upon the 45 members of the graduating class by authority of the Berlin Board of Education and the State of New York.

During the ceremony Burnsley recognized K–12 staff across the district, invited the top 10 students to stand, and acknowledged class advisors and music staff. The program concluded with the reading of graduates
nd instructions for the recessional and a post-ceremony reception in the gymnasium.