Middleton High School’s Special Education Program recognized 10 students from the Class of 2026 during an inclusive fundamental graduation ceremony on June 3 in the Performing Arts Center.
Special Education Coordinator Becky Poehls said the tradition started last year to better meet the needs of students who have sensory challenges and find the larger commencement ceremony overwhelming.
“Families greatly appreciated the option of our inclusive ceremony last year as it better met their students’ needs and therefore their family needs,” Poehls said. “This smaller ceremony also allowed us as a department to more thoroughly celebrate these amazing students that often do not get the full recognition and celebration that they deserve.”
Students received certificates of completion in front of their families, friends, teachers, and members of Best Buddies, a peer-led program that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, leadership development and inclusivity for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Students also enjoyed a reception after the ceremony.
Poehls shared what she would like others to know about Middleton High School’s special education students.
“These students, along with their families, teach every one of us so much more than we could ever teach them: the re-definition of success, the depths of patience and empathy, and the fact that communication takes many forms, to name a few,” Poehls said.
Next year, most of the ceremony’s graduates will enroll in Cardinal Academy, MCPASD's post-high school program for students ages 18-21 who need extra support.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026!