Rogers High School Celebrates Class of 2026 During Annual Decision Day Assembly

Rogers High School recently celebrated the Class of 2026 during its annual Decision Day assembly, an inspiring event recognizing students and the many pathways they will pursue after graduation. 

As an AVID Demonstration School, Rogers High School is committed to helping students identify, prepare for, and achieve their postsecondary goals. Through AVID’s mission of college and career readiness, students are encouraged to explore opportunities that align with their interests, strengths, and aspirations - whether that path includes a four-year university, two-year college, apprenticeship, technical training, military service, internships, or entering the workforce. 

The celebration highlighted the incredible range of futures awaiting Rogers students. Seniors announced plans to attend universities across Washington state, the West Coast, Midwest, East Coast, and internationally, while others committed to community colleges, technical schools, apprenticeships, internships, military service, and skilled trades programs. Among the many schools represented were Boise State University, Eastern Washington University, Western Washington University, Pacific Lutheran University, University of Washington, Pierce College, Central Washington University, and Washington State University. 

This year’s event drew special guests from across the district and AVID community, including AVID Chief Executive Officer Dr. Thuan Nguyen, Interim Superintendent Richard Lasso, and incoming Superintendent Kevin Alfano, all of whom joined students and families in celebrating this important milestone. 

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(L-R: Incoming Superintendent Dr. Kevin Alfano, AVID Chief Executive Officer Dr. Thuan Nguyen, and Interim Superintendent Richard Lasso)

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The assembly also recognized Rogers students, staff, and family members who are first-generation college students through the school’s partnership with the “I’m First” campaign - a nationwide movement dedicated to supporting and celebrating first-generation scholars. During the program, attendees who were the first in their families to attend college were invited to stand, creating a powerful moment of connection and pride throughout the gymnasium.  

In addition to celebrating future plans, the event honored recipients of the 7th Annual Mayra Giles Against All Odds Scholarship and the 10th Annual Paul M. Stilnovich Decision Day Scholarship, each valued at $1,000. 

This year’s Paul M. Stilnovich Decision Day Scholarship recipient was senior Kayla Welch, a three-year AVID student actively involved in Running Start and education preparation courses. Kayla plans to attend to major in Elementary Education at Central Washington University. 

The assembly concluded with a message that reflected the spirit of the event and the Rogers community: “WE Are Rogers; WE #ReachHigher.” 

For Rogers students, Decision Day was more than a celebration of college admissions -  it was a recognition of perseverance, opportunity, and the many different paths to success.