Class of 2026 graduates in GRC Arena
- May 26
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 19
The Class of 2026 celebrated a milestone achievement as 438 seniors crossed the stage during graduation ceremonies at GRC Arena on Friday, May 22.
Before family members, friends, faculty, and staff, first-year Principal Justin Arms reflected on the accomplishments of the graduating class and thanked students, parents, and the school community for their trust and support throughout the year.
Arms challenged graduates to carry forward the lessons they learned as Cardinals by embracing the acronym "CARDS" as a blueprint for future success.
"C" stands for courage, Arms said, reminding students that courage is not the absence of fear but the willingness to move forward when the future is uncertain. He encouraged graduates to step outside their comfort zones, take risks, pursue their goals, and become leaders who make a difference in the world.
The letter "A" represents attitude. Arms emphasized the importance of maintaining positive thoughts and focusing on what can be controlled. He told graduates that thoughts become words, words become actions, and those actions ultimately shape success.
For "R," Arms highlighted resilience. He acknowledged the setbacks, disappointments, and challenges each graduate had faced on the journey to graduation. Quoting the character Rocky Balboa, he reminded students that success is not determined by how many times someone is knocked down, but by their ability to keep moving forward. The lessons learned through adversity, he said, will serve graduates long after high school.
"D" stands for discipline. Arms noted that success is built through consistency, commitment, and sacrifice. Referencing a message shared during baccalaureate services, he encouraged graduates to build their lives on a solid foundation and remain steadfast when challenges arise. Discipline, he said, creates growth, opens doors, and transforms goals into accomplishments.
The final letter, "S," represents service. Arms stressed that true leadership is measured not only by personal achievement but also by a willingness to help others. He encouraged graduates to embrace servant leadership and remember that lasting impact comes through serving those around them.
Whether their next chapter includes college, vocational training, military service, or entering the workforce, Arms told graduates that following the principles of courage, attitude, resilience, discipline, and service would lead them toward success.
As the ceremony came to a close, Arms offered his heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2026 and wished each graduate the very best in the future.
"For the last time," he said, "Go Cards."
Class of 2026 By the Numbers
Highest GPA: 4.633
107 Cardinal Scholars (3.75+ GPA)
64 GPAs at 4.0 or above
Approximately 400 dual credit courses taken
More than $279,000 in local scholarship money awarded
More than $1 million in college scholarship money from institutions
Colleges and universities in nearly a dozen states, including Harvard, will welcome GRC grads in the fall.
(CCPS photos)
