The June breeze carries the bittersweet whispers of departure and fills the sails of the future. The Class of 2026 Graduation Ceremony of SMCS commenced in a warm and solemn atmosphere.
Part 1：From Here · Setting Sail with Dreams
Principal Owen delivered a deeply touching address. Addressing their "three-year question," he said:
"
In three years, may you not only become a 'better self,' but also 'the self who has found inner certainty.' May everyone ultimately cast their life's anchor on that immovable rock.
"
Teachers' Blessings
A special gift
During the ceremony, teachers presented a special gift—a video message filled with blessings and advice.
Their gentle care and high hopes are the ultimate support for the graduates as they pack their bags for the future.
Parents of Rachel and Roc, representing the families, expressed their deep gratitude for the school's dedication.
Speech by Rachel's parent
Rachel's parent delivered a witty, wise, and heartwarming speech, drawing close to the "beautiful girls and handsome boys" in the audience.
He expressed sincere gratitude to SMCS for providing a relaxed, free growing environment that preserved the students' natural curiosity—
"Here, there was no hyper-competition for students, nor for parents."
In this new era of rapid AI iteration and uncertainty, and in response to the students' anxieties about the future, he presented them with three "certain forces" to pack into their journey:
⬆️Scroll up and down to view⬇️
Roc's parent warmly recalled Roc's challenging yet beautiful journey of growth over the past few years.
Three years ago, due to health reasons, Roc returned to China from the United States with anxiety and uncertainty. Facing an unfamiliar environment and an uncertain path to higher education, the family was overwhelmed with anxiety. At the moment when he needed support the most, it was SMCS that opened its arms and brought him warmth and hope.
They sent their warmest wishes to the graduates embarking on their new journeys, hoping they pursue their dreams fearlessly.
Part 2：Glorious Moments
The Graduation Ceremony
Amidst the solemn melody, the most exciting moment arrived.
Principal Owen turned the tassel for each graduate and took photos, marking their transition from high school students to young scholars.
A Feast for the Eyes and Ears
Multi-talented students brought wonderful dance and song performances.
Swipe left or right to view more
Swipe left or right to view more
The vibrant moves and touching choruses were both a farewell to their youth and a warm blessing to the graduates.
We wish the Class of 2026 a bright and brilliant future ahead!
With an open mind, we embrace and connect with the world.
Stepping abroad, SMCS youth will shine on the global stage with a broader vision.
On the path to "connecting the world," our outstanding alumni have left shining footprints.
Senior Song from UCL returned to SMCS with heartfelt wishes.
Drawing from his study abroad experience, he encouraged graduates to embrace diverse cultures while keeping cultural confidence, telling Chinese stories, and showing the unique vision and responsibility of SMCS students.
Rachel, the A Level representative, and Eric, the AP representative, took the stage to share their "SMCS Stories":
Rachel recalled her growth since entering SMCS in the 9th grade, expressing deep gratitude to her teachers:
The English team and Mr. Maceo for broadening her horizons; the math and science teachers for rebuilding her confidence with humor and patience; Freya for her thoughtful exam prep lists; and Lucas for his guidance and patience in art and photography.
Thankful for the school's open philosophy that allowed her to grow at her own pace, she concluded with:
"
Our lives have just begun. Go pursue your dreams, explore the world, and be your unique self!
"
Eric shared his unforgettable morning when he received his dream school offer, and reflected on his transformation.
Upon arriving at SMCS, he initially felt like struggling with the all-English textbooks and unfamiliar discussions. It was the teachers' patient listening, encouragement, and trust in his student union run that broke through his closed shell. He sincerely thanked all the teachers for their companionship and guidance, which illuminated his warm and brilliant high school years.
He concluded with empowering words for all graduates:
"
Every step you take counts. All the painful nights will eventually turn into the dawn you are proud of. May we all embark on our respective journeys and continue to shine in some corner of the world.
"
Their growth stories are a vivid microcosm of SMCS students soaring toward the "distance" of the world with a global vision.
Accompanied by the crisp sound of camera shutters, the Class of 2026 Graduation Ceremony of SMCS came to a successful close amidst deep emotion and joy.
繁体
