On the afternoon of June 22, the 2026 Grade 8 Graduation Ceremony of Shanghai High School International Division was held in the big auditorium. Under the theme "Moments of Light Combine, Futures of Excellence Unite" the ceremony marked a milestone for the Class of 2026—three years of shared discovery and the courage to journey forward.

On the afternoon of June 22, the big auditorium was alive with anticipation. The graduating eighth graders, dressed in formal attire, sat in quiet excitement, their eyes shining with both fond memories of the past three years and eager anticipation for the journey ahead. This was the moment they had been waiting for—a ceremony to say goodbye, and above all, to begin anew.

At 4:00 PM, the school string ensemble opened the ceremony with a spirited and polished performance of River Dance. Its bright and uplifting notes filled the auditorium, striking a dignified yet celebratory tone for this ceremony of youth.

The hosts, Mr. Yu Xiwen and Mr. Michael Laverriere, announced the official start of the graduation ceremony. All graduates rose to their feet as the audience erupted in thunderous applause, offering their warmest congratulations to the graduates. The hosts then introduced the distinguished guests in attendance.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including Mr. Ma Feng, Vice Principal of Shanghai High School and Principal of SHSID High School; Mr. Liu Lian, Principal of SHSID Middle and Primary School; Ms. Liu Min, Vice Principal of SHSID High School; Ms. Liu Fang and Mr. Shen Tianyuan, Vice Principals of SHSID Middle and Primary School; Ms. Miao Xiaoling, Assistant Principal of SHSID Middle and Primary School; Mr. Edward Key, English Curriculum Assistant Principal of SHSID Middle and Primary School; Mr. Ni Minxue, Director of SHSID Middle and Primary School Teachers' Center; and Ms. Liu Shan, Director of SHSID High School Teachers' Center, alongside section directors, teachers, and parents who gathered to witness this milestone.

Mr. Liu Lian, Principal of SHSID Middle and Primary School, delivered a heartfelt address. On behalf of SHSID, he extended warm congratulations to the Class of 2026 for successfully completing their middle school journey. He reflected on their accomplishments across academics, science, arts, and sports—each achievement a testament to their perseverance. Beyond trophies and awards, he emphasized that growth also unfolded in their engagement with others and the wider community. Over the past year, 31 service learning projects allowed students to extend knowledge, care, and kindness to those in need. In an era shaped by AI, Principal Liu encouraged graduates to maintain the courage to face challenges with patience and resilience, urging them to remain thoughtful, compassionate, and responsible as they move forward.

Ricky from Class 8-6 took the stage as the student representative. He shared his personal journey from valuing speed to embracing slow thinking. Initially drawn to quick answers, he gradually realized that the most challenging problems required a more thoughtful approach. Using math as an example, he described how slowing down helped him see the bigger picture and make better decisions—a lesson that extended far beyond academics into time management and life choices. He expressed gratitude to his teachers, classmates, and family, and closed with a message to his peers: the future is not a race to be fastest, but a journey to be thoughtful.

Parent representative Ms. Sun Xuxu addressed the audience. She extended warm congratulations to all graduates and sincere thanks to the faculty. She reflected on the remarkable growth she had witnessed in her own child over the past three years—from a hesitant child to a confident young individual ready to embrace academic challenges. As a researcher herself, she expressed her deep gratitude for the school's dedication to nurturing students’ scientific curiosity. She encouraged graduates to stay grateful, passionate, and adaptable, while always cherishing health, happiness, and the light in their eyes.

Following the speeches, it was time for the awards. The first awards presented were the Excellence in Music, Sports, and Arts Awards, honoring students whose passion and dedication shone brightly on stage, on the athletic field, and before the canvas. Each awardee walked to the stage amid warm applause. The Subject Award for Independent Learning followed, honoring students who demonstrated creativity, perseverance, reflection, and self-management in their academic pursuits. These students have continually pushed beyond their limits, embodying the true spirit of independent learning, and received heartfelt applause from all present.

The thousand days of middle school were woven into a unique tapestry of memories—a shared story for every graduate. Eight students from different homerooms took the stage to recite their own original graduation poem. Written entirely by students, the verses traced their journey through the past three years—each line a reflection of their shared memories and personal growth, a unique keepsake to carry forward.

The ceremony next presented the Excellent Service Learning Program Award. Over the past year, students extended their care beyond the classroom and into the wider community. They organized charity sales, held educational talks, supported schools in mountainous regions, and took part in environmental initiatives. Through each experience, they learned to care for others, serve their communities, take responsibility, and bring warmth to the world—while also redefining their own sense of purpose. Student representatives from ten award-winning service learning groups walked to the stage to receive this honor. This recognition not only reflects their efforts over the past one year, but also lights the way as they continue to make a difference in the years ahead.

Eleven students received the Outstanding Graduate Award for their all-round excellence across academics, activities, service, and character. These students distinguished themselves through intellectual curiosity, commitment to their community, and integrity in their daily lives. Their efforts over the past three years showed that true excellence is never one-dimensional—it is shaped by dedication, leadership, and quiet integrity that earns the respect of those around them.

The most anticipated moment arrived with the graduation diploma awarding ceremony. One by one, all the graduates walked onto the stage and received their diplomas from school leaders and teachers—a testament to their years of hard work, carrying the expectations of their teachers and the promise of a bright future.

Following the graduation diploma awarding ceremony, Mr. Shen Tianyuan, Vice Principal of SHSID Middle and Primary School, delivered a heartfelt address. He reflected on the graduates' journey over the past three years and encouraged them to carry forward the habits of thoughtful reflection, the courage to act, and the warmth to care for others. He also introduced the graduation gift box, a special token from the school—one that holds not only memories of their time here, but also the sincere blessings of every teacher who has accompanied them along the way.

The Class of 2026 next presented a special gift to the school—a giant puzzle created by all 298 students over the course of two months. The puzzle depicted the familiar Hsi Building and the graduation theme, with each piece signed with a student's name and a graduation wish. More than a picture, the puzzle symbolized the unique role each student played in shaping their class—a perfect harmony of individuality and unity. Every meaningful moment along their journey, from confusion to breakthrough, came together like the pieces of a puzzle, forming a grand vision of the future. This collective creation became both a cherished memory and a heartfelt farewell to their alma mater.

The lights dimmed, the screen lit up, and the graduation video began to play. The camera swept through the corridors of the Hsi Building, across the auditorium stage, and along the tracks of the sports field—capturing moments that once shone brightly: focused eyes in the classroom, bursts of energy on stage, determined effort on the field, and quiet warmth in service to others. In those brief and luminous images, may the memories of three unforgettable years be forever cherished.

As the ceremony drew to a close, the familiar melody of the graduation song filled the auditorium. All graduates sang A Million Dreams with heartfelt emotion, their voices weaving together youthful aspirations and sincere gratitude. Together, all graduates lit the small orange or blue star-shaped lights in their hands—tiny beams that gathered and rose, forming a brilliant galaxy that illuminated their radiant faces.

As the graduation song reached its final notes, colorful confetti burst into the air like a shower of stars, bringing the ceremony to a dazzling and poetic close. Amid sustained applause and cheers, the 2026 Grade 8 Graduation Ceremony came to a memorable end.

Time awaits a new chapter, and the steeds are ready to ride far. We wish the entire Class of 2026 a happy graduation!