Prepared for What’s Next: Class of 2026 Graduate Stories
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Articles by National Heritage
Students across the National Heritage Academies® (NHA®) network completed their high school journeys, and thanks to NHA’s focus on academic rigor and character development, these young adults are ready to take their first steps into the real world.
Every year, we highlight outstanding graduating seniors from each of our partner high schools and celebrate their accomplishments. Check out inspiring graduates from the Class of 2026 and learn about how NHA schools helped them prepare for what’s ahead!
Maddie’s time at Arbor Prep was defined by a steady climb out of her comfort zone. Reflecting on her growth, Maddie identified a personal philosophy that mirrors the perseverance taught through Moral Focus™.
"I think you'll only go as far as you push yourself. So, a lot of stuff is going to be challenging … but if you can push yourself through it and get to where you want to be, then it is worth it in the end."
Read Maddie's Story
When Davin Burnell saw a need at Canton Prep, he did what he knows best: lead his classmates and support his school.
Davin helped revive the school’s student council. He helped plan Homecoming and pep rallies, which he said was some of his favorite work. He was also a member of the National Honor Society and helped organize a blood drive at the school.
“The most I’ve learned in those roles would be how to work well with everyone’s different types of personalities,” Burnell said. “As a leader, you have to understand your people, understand what works for them when it comes to helping or giving advice. Being able to balance telling people what they need to do and how they need to hear it to make the best outcome for the team is something I learned.”
Read Davin's Story
Center Line Prep 2026 graduate Michael Pettway leaned on his support system to find success, and it led him to a debt-free college experience.
Michael was active at school and in his community, reinforcing the bonds he built. He volunteered at his church, read to young students, and was a teacher’s assistant. Michael’s voice was familiar to the school, as he sang at various school events such as art galas, commencements, and school board meetings.
Michael is taking the next steps toward a career in psychology by traveling to the other side of Michigan. He will be attending Grand Valley State University in the fall, and while he hasn’t decided just yet, Michael is leaning toward a career in clinical psychology.
Read Michael's Story
Grand River Prep graduates Temprence Edwards and Tala Gates-Johnson have been awarded the prestigious Oxford Scholarship, an achievement that reflects years of hard work, curiosity, and a commitment to excellence. It’s an example of how NHA prepares students for success academically and beyond.
“At NHA, it’s not just about getting good grades,” Tala said. “It’s about understanding why you’re learning something and how it connects to the world around you.”
Temprence shared a similar sentiment, adding that the school’s staff was crucial during her time at the school.
“They challenge us,” Temprence said. “They make sure you’re trying your best and set you up for success.”
Read Temperance and Tala's Stories
Oakside Prep 2026 graduate Samuel (Sammy) Rodriguez has evolved since he began kindergarten at Walton Charter Academy. While he learned basics such as reading, writing, and arithmetic, Sammy also grew as a person through NHA's character-building Moral Focus™ program.
“I feel like I have become a better person because of being at NHA schools,” Sammy reflected. “It felt like home; all the teachers and people were excited to be there.”
This fall, Samuel will be taking his talents to Rochester Christian University. While he has not yet declared a specific major, he’s already finding opportunities to express his love for STEM.
“I am not yet decided, but I am excited to jump into the clubs they offer," Samuel said. "I’m going to join the STEM club, and I am really excited.”
Read Sammy's Story
As they looked back at the years of education provided by caring teachers, seniors at Phoenix Academy recently had the opportunity to show their appreciation during a special assembly at the school. They were tasked with picking a single staff member to honor as “the one” who made a significant difference in their education.
The special event, created by Principal Heather McNees, provided time for teachers to learn about the incredible difference they’ve made in the lives of their students. The graduates wrote personal letters expressing how a staff member made an impact. Honored teachers received a letter written by the students and a shirt that says, “I was the one for a 2026 Phoenix Academy Senior!”
Littlejohn chose to honor his high school science teacher Zachary Hoke as someone who showed him trust, encouragement, and mentorship throughout his time at the school. Duke shared his appreciation for middle and high school music teacher Keri Truhe, who helped him find a special connection with music during a switch from alto to tenor saxophone.
Read Joshua and Gavin's Stories
This fall, PrepNet Virtual Academy (PVA) senior Julia Acker will attend the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee to study computer science. But before that first day of class, she’s going on an even bigger adventure!
Julia has been accepted into the Oxford Scholars program. This August, she’ll travel to England and study technology, literature, and architecture, at the University of Oxford. The two-week program gives graduating seniors a taste of the college environment.
Julia’s mother Laura shared that the program at PVA gave her daughter flexibility while focusing on academics, and that helped her grow as a student and as a person.
“PrepNet Virtual Academy has given her the opportunity to spread her wings and manage her time like an adult. That’s something you don’t always get in a traditional setting,” Laura said.
Read Julia's Story
When Olivia Irvan was a child, she had a Michigan Wolverines cheerleader outfit and dreamt of attending the University of Michigan. Olivia’s dream will become a reality this fall.
The 2026 Taylor Prep graduate is eager to hit the ground running in Ann Arbor, where she will attend UofM debt-free thanks to a mixture of scholarships and grants.
Olivia also faced her share of personal challenges, but she used Moral Focus™ and perseverance to overcome them. She said the program and her experiences helped shape who she is.
“Moral Focus gives us a larger scope of the world and how people are emotionally,” Olivia said. “It’s very beneficial in supporting students emotionally and teaching them those skills.”
Read Olivia's Story
For Josue Pineda, high school was about more than earning a diploma; it was about shaping his future through Wellspring Prep’s dual enrollment program. This spring, Josue is graduating with 30 college credits from both Grand Rapids Community College and Calvin University.
Josue said the experience pushed him to grow in ways he never expected.
“It helped me step up my writing and build discipline,” he said. “College professors don’t remind you about every assignment, so I had to learn how to stay on top of my work.”
Read Josue's Story
Xavier Norman wanted to be someone his classmates looked up to. The 2026 Westfield Prep graduate grew as a leader and student in his four years at the school, and now he’s ready to use those skills at the college level.
Xavier joined Westfield Prep during his freshman year and said he wanted to set a good example for his fellow students. Thanks to his involvement in a variety of school clubs and organizations, he accomplished that goal.
He enjoyed giving back to his community as part of Westfield Prep’s National Honor Society and helped organize a senior field trip to an apple orchard this past fall.
Read Xavier's Story
Every year, we highlight outstanding graduating seniors from each of our partner high schools and celebrate their accomplishments. Check out inspiring graduates from the Class of 2026 and learn about how NHA schools helped them prepare for what’s ahead!
Arbor Preparatory High School – Maddie Marsiglia
Maddie’s time at Arbor Prep was defined by a steady climb out of her comfort zone. Reflecting on her growth, Maddie identified a personal philosophy that mirrors the perseverance taught through Moral Focus™.
"I think you'll only go as far as you push yourself. So, a lot of stuff is going to be challenging … but if you can push yourself through it and get to where you want to be, then it is worth it in the end."
Read Maddie's Story
Canton Preparatory High School – Davin Burnell
When Davin Burnell saw a need at Canton Prep, he did what he knows best: lead his classmates and support his school.
Davin helped revive the school’s student council. He helped plan Homecoming and pep rallies, which he said was some of his favorite work. He was also a member of the National Honor Society and helped organize a blood drive at the school.
“The most I’ve learned in those roles would be how to work well with everyone’s different types of personalities,” Burnell said. “As a leader, you have to understand your people, understand what works for them when it comes to helping or giving advice. Being able to balance telling people what they need to do and how they need to hear it to make the best outcome for the team is something I learned.”
Read Davin's Story
Center Line Preparatory Academy – Michael Pettway
Center Line Prep 2026 graduate Michael Pettway leaned on his support system to find success, and it led him to a debt-free college experience.
Michael was active at school and in his community, reinforcing the bonds he built. He volunteered at his church, read to young students, and was a teacher’s assistant. Michael’s voice was familiar to the school, as he sang at various school events such as art galas, commencements, and school board meetings.
Michael is taking the next steps toward a career in psychology by traveling to the other side of Michigan. He will be attending Grand Valley State University in the fall, and while he hasn’t decided just yet, Michael is leaning toward a career in clinical psychology.
Read Michael's Story
Grand River Preparatory High School – Temprence Edwards and Tala Gates-Johnson
Grand River Prep graduates Temprence Edwards and Tala Gates-Johnson have been awarded the prestigious Oxford Scholarship, an achievement that reflects years of hard work, curiosity, and a commitment to excellence. It’s an example of how NHA prepares students for success academically and beyond.
“At NHA, it’s not just about getting good grades,” Tala said. “It’s about understanding why you’re learning something and how it connects to the world around you.”
Temprence shared a similar sentiment, adding that the school’s staff was crucial during her time at the school.
“They challenge us,” Temprence said. “They make sure you’re trying your best and set you up for success.”
Read Temperance and Tala's Stories
Oakside Prep Academy – Samuel Rodriguez
Oakside Prep 2026 graduate Samuel (Sammy) Rodriguez has evolved since he began kindergarten at Walton Charter Academy. While he learned basics such as reading, writing, and arithmetic, Sammy also grew as a person through NHA's character-building Moral Focus™ program.
“I feel like I have become a better person because of being at NHA schools,” Sammy reflected. “It felt like home; all the teachers and people were excited to be there.”
This fall, Samuel will be taking his talents to Rochester Christian University. While he has not yet declared a specific major, he’s already finding opportunities to express his love for STEM.
“I am not yet decided, but I am excited to jump into the clubs they offer," Samuel said. "I’m going to join the STEM club, and I am really excited.”
Read Sammy's Story
Phoenix Academy – Joshua Littlejohn and Gavin Duke
As they looked back at the years of education provided by caring teachers, seniors at Phoenix Academy recently had the opportunity to show their appreciation during a special assembly at the school. They were tasked with picking a single staff member to honor as “the one” who made a significant difference in their education.
The special event, created by Principal Heather McNees, provided time for teachers to learn about the incredible difference they’ve made in the lives of their students. The graduates wrote personal letters expressing how a staff member made an impact. Honored teachers received a letter written by the students and a shirt that says, “I was the one for a 2026 Phoenix Academy Senior!”
Littlejohn chose to honor his high school science teacher Zachary Hoke as someone who showed him trust, encouragement, and mentorship throughout his time at the school. Duke shared his appreciation for middle and high school music teacher Keri Truhe, who helped him find a special connection with music during a switch from alto to tenor saxophone.
Read Joshua and Gavin's Stories
PrepNet Virtual Academy – Julia Acker
This fall, PrepNet Virtual Academy (PVA) senior Julia Acker will attend the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee to study computer science. But before that first day of class, she’s going on an even bigger adventure!
Julia has been accepted into the Oxford Scholars program. This August, she’ll travel to England and study technology, literature, and architecture, at the University of Oxford. The two-week program gives graduating seniors a taste of the college environment.
Julia’s mother Laura shared that the program at PVA gave her daughter flexibility while focusing on academics, and that helped her grow as a student and as a person.
“PrepNet Virtual Academy has given her the opportunity to spread her wings and manage her time like an adult. That’s something you don’t always get in a traditional setting,” Laura said.
Read Julia's Story
Taylor Preparatory High School – Olivia Irvan
When Olivia Irvan was a child, she had a Michigan Wolverines cheerleader outfit and dreamt of attending the University of Michigan. Olivia’s dream will become a reality this fall.
The 2026 Taylor Prep graduate is eager to hit the ground running in Ann Arbor, where she will attend UofM debt-free thanks to a mixture of scholarships and grants.
Olivia also faced her share of personal challenges, but she used Moral Focus™ and perseverance to overcome them. She said the program and her experiences helped shape who she is.
“Moral Focus gives us a larger scope of the world and how people are emotionally,” Olivia said. “It’s very beneficial in supporting students emotionally and teaching them those skills.”
Read Olivia's Story
Wellspring Preparatory High School – Josue Pineda
For Josue Pineda, high school was about more than earning a diploma; it was about shaping his future through Wellspring Prep’s dual enrollment program. This spring, Josue is graduating with 30 college credits from both Grand Rapids Community College and Calvin University.
Josue said the experience pushed him to grow in ways he never expected.
“It helped me step up my writing and build discipline,” he said. “College professors don’t remind you about every assignment, so I had to learn how to stay on top of my work.”
Read Josue's Story
Westfield Preparatory High School – Xavier Norman
Xavier Norman wanted to be someone his classmates looked up to. The 2026 Westfield Prep graduate grew as a leader and student in his four years at the school, and now he’s ready to use those skills at the college level.
Xavier joined Westfield Prep during his freshman year and said he wanted to set a good example for his fellow students. Thanks to his involvement in a variety of school clubs and organizations, he accomplished that goal.
He enjoyed giving back to his community as part of Westfield Prep’s National Honor Society and helped organize a senior field trip to an apple orchard this past fall.
Read Xavier's Story