The Londonderry Spring Adult Education program honored its May Class of 2026 graduates during a heartfelt ceremony recognizing perseverance, resilience and the departure of long-time director Crystal Rich.
Held with family, friends and staff in attendance, the graduation ceremony featured traditional elements alongside personal reflections that highlighted the unique journeys of the program’s students in the LHS gym.
The ceremony opened with the processional of “Pomp and Circumstance,”led by graduation marshals Danielle Loschiavo, Londonderry High School music teacher, along with Adult Education teachers Kristen Radford and Lori Jabar. Graduating student Gabriel Petkus delivered the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the National Anthem performed by LHS student Rebecca Solomons.
Crystal Rich, who’s been the Director of Adult Education for the past eight years, celebrated her final year as the director and welcomed attendees, emphasizing the significance of the moment for the graduates and the community.
School Board Chair Bob Slater offered congratulatory remarks, recognizing the determination and commitment required to complete the program and also thanked Rich for what she has done for the program over the years.
Graduating student Makenzie Daneau addressed her classmates as the student speaker, sharing reflections on the challenges faced and the perseverance needed to reach graduation. Adult Education teacher Tim Peterson followed as the staff speaker, offering words of encouragement and praise for the class.
Music also played a role in the ceremony, with the class song, “Little Wonders” by Rob Thomas, sung by Solomons, underscoring the theme of growth and achievement.
Scholarships and awards were presented by Rich and Adult Education teacher Mary Shank, recognizing outstanding accomplishments among the graduates. Diplomas were then awarded by school counselors Angela Harrison and Emily Cline, alongside Rich.
The program featured a letter by Rich reflecting on her eight years leading the program, calling the experience one of the most meaningful of her career.
“Adult Education is a place where perseverance, hope, resilience and second chances come to life every single day,” Rich said. “Watching students overcome obstacles and believe in themselves again has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life.”
Rich also thanked the staff, School Board and administration for their continued support, as well as the students for their determination and trust throughout their educational journeys.
“This program has shaped me into the educator and person I am today,” she said.
Members of the graduating class included Sill Barretto, Benjamin Chandler, Makenzie Daneau, Guilianna Devesus, Leah Doherty, Faris El Maazaoui, Griffin Foster, Leah Griffin, Celia Kerr, Paige Kidder (HiSET), Emily Lally, Kamiellia Massote, Joshua Nickerson, Gabriel Petkus, Annellie Pomales Acevedo, Mia Quigley, Zoe Rainville, Maddox Sandman, Tucker Sherman, Aubrey Yazbek and Autumn Yazbek.
As the graduates move forward, the ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the impact of Adult Education in opening doors and transforming lives within the community.