Berkeley High School’s Academic Choice (AC) graduation was held on Tuesday, May 27, 2026 at 6 p.m. in the Donahue Gym. Families and friends gathered in the bleachers to watch the seniors graduate. The night began with an introduction from AC teacher lead and English teacher Matthew Carton. Carton reminded the audience that AC is the largest small school at BHS. It was founded in the 2005-2006 school year, making this AC’s nineteenth graduating class.
The night continued with a meaningful speech from BHS transfer student Alisa Kolpakova, who spoke on her experience immigrating from Ukraine and integrating into AC. “I originally chose AC because I wanted to experiment with my classes and challenge myself in various ways. But I didn’t realize that AC would become the place that would help me heal and find my footing,” Kolpakova said.
The graduation continued onward with the presentation of the first half of the graduates. Students walked single file to the front of the stage and had their names read out to the crowd by either Carton or fellow AC English teacher Kate Rosen. Next, there was a short dance performance from three members of The Million Dollar Dance Team. Dressed in black and blue, the lively performance was a well-executed intermission. It was then followed by a speech from student Henry Reid, who shared his past struggles with mental health, and how AC teachers supported him throughout the process.
The rest of the graduates were then presented to the audience, as attendees cheered as each student was handed their academic stole.
Nic’Shea Montgomery gave one of the last speeches of the night. Montgomery told the story of her high school career, from freshman year hives to the recent AC senior field trip.
Finally, there was a speech from AC Teacher Lead and history teacher Joseph Smith, who gave parting words before officially welcoming the newest AC class of 2026 as graduates.