Middle School

Celebrating the Lasting Impact of the Class of 2026

Lion Dance at the Class of 2026 Graduation
Lion Dance at the Class of 2026 Graduation

CAIS was proud to celebrate Graduation 2026 for 42 outstanding Firedragons. Head of School Jeff Bissell’s commencement speech for the Class of 2026 honored the achievements of both the students and retiring administrator Joe Williamson. He highlighted Mr. Williamson’s twelve-year legacy, noting his influence on everything from 3 campus moves to the development of a unique student-led musical theater program. Rather than offering traditional advice, the Mr. Bissell characterized the graduates through their history of social activism, tracing their growth from third-grade anti-racism protests to sophisticated middle school performances about immigration justice. He commended the class for successfully merging their artistic talents with the school’s core values and mission. By showcasing videos of their work, Mr. Bissell illustrated how these students have consistently used their voices to address real-world challenges with courage and creativity. We celebrated the distinct identity the Class of 2026 has established within the school community as they embody the CAIS mission to contribute to a better world.

Enjoy the recording of the program below: