HUSD Class of 2026 Sets Records Across District

Graduation Rates, Scholarships Reach New Heights

HESPERIA, Calif. (Our Hesperia) – More than 1,800 students across the Hesperia Unified School District celebrated graduation this year, marking one of the most successful academic years in district history. From record-breaking scholarship awards and historic graduation rates to unprecedented numbers of college-ready graduates and career pathway completers, the Class of 2026 demonstrated the district’s commitment to preparing students for success in college, careers, military service, and community leadership.

Top Areas Covered

• Districtwide graduation achievements
• Record scholarship and academic accomplishments
• Historic graduation rates at multiple campuses
• Career Technical Education (CTE) success
• Military enlistments and workforce readiness
• Adult education milestones
• Leadership transitions at local schools

The Hesperia Unified School District’s Class of 2026 leaves behind a legacy of academic excellence and perseverance. Across traditional high schools, alternative campuses, and adult education programs, students achieved significant milestones while maintaining strong graduation rates and expanding opportunities for future success.

Alternative Schools Deliver Strong Results

At Canyon Ridge High School, 84 graduates completed their educational journeys, continuing the school’s tradition of supporting students through unique academic pathways. Graduates moved forward into employment, trade schools, military service, and higher education.

Mojave High School celebrated 144 graduates while reaching a major milestone with a 95% graduation rate — the highest achieved by the school in the past decade. The graduating class included 30 Career Technical Education completers, 15 students entering vocational programs, 10 recipients of local scholarships, and three graduates entering military service.

Shadow Ridge School posted a perfect 100% graduation rate, with all 54 seniors earning diplomas. Among the graduates, 74% completed A-G university admission requirements, while 30% earned CTE completion status, positioning them for both college and career opportunities.

 

Oak Hills Continues Tradition of Excellence

Oak Hills High School graduated 577 students and generated nearly $2 million in scholarship awards over four years, including $443,200 annually in scholarship funding.

The Bulldogs produced 20 valedictorians and 81 Seal of Biliteracy recipients. Twenty student-athletes accepted opportunities to compete at the collegiate level, while 10 graduates committed to military service. Six students also earned full tuition through the Giveback Program.

Graduates will attend universities across the nation, including California State University campuses and several private and out-of-state institutions.

The ceremony also marked the conclusion of Principal Mike Capps’ nearly 30-year career in education as he prepares for retirement.

 

 

Sultana Graduates Demonstrate College and Career Readiness

Sultana High School honored 444 graduates while achieving a remarkable 99% graduation rate.

The school’s emphasis on college and career preparation was reflected in impressive statistics:

• 76% completed A-G requirements
• 76% completed CTE pathways
• 14 students earned a combined 29 Associate’s Degrees while still in high school

Scholarship achievements included:

• $423,000 in community scholarships
• $305,456 annually in university scholarships
• $1.22 million in projected four-year university scholarship totals
• $31,570 annually in athletic scholarships
• Nearly $95,000 in projected four-year athletic scholarship awards

Hesperia High Breaks Records

Hesperia High School’s Class of 2026 delivered one of the most accomplished graduating classes in school history.

The school graduated 548 students and surpassed $2.2 million in scholarship awards. Additionally, 84% of graduates completed A-G requirements, preparing them for admission to California’s public university systems.

Academic achievements included:

• 45 valedictorians
• 79 Associate of Arts degrees earned concurrently with high school diplomas
• 42 students earning multiple associate degrees
• 6 students earning three associate degrees
• 2 students earning four associate degrees

The class also included recipients of prestigious national academic honors, including Gates Scholar, Edison Scholar, and QuestBridge Scholar recognition.

The graduation ceremony also recognized Principal Brett Everett, who will transition to a leadership role within the district office after more than a decade leading Hesperia High School.

Adult Education Continues Changing Lives

The Victor Valley Adult Education Regional Consortium celebrated 580 graduates ranging in age from 18 to 85 years old. Hesperia Adult School supported 228 of those graduates.

The ceremony highlighted the growing importance of adult education programs in helping residents complete diplomas, career certifications, and educational goals that can lead to improved employment opportunities and higher wages.

 

 

 

 

Building on a Legacy of Success

The achievements of the Class of 2026 continue a long-standing trend of academic growth within Hesperia Unified. Over the past decade, the district has expanded dual-enrollment opportunities, Career Technical Education pathways, military and workforce preparation programs, and university partnerships that allow students to earn college credit before graduation.

This year’s results demonstrate the impact of those investments. More students are graduating prepared for higher education, skilled trades, military service, and workforce careers than ever before.

As more than 1,800 graduates move into the next chapter of their lives, the Class of 2026 leaves behind a record-setting legacy of scholarship, achievement, resilience, and community pride that will serve as a benchmark for future generations of Hesperia students.