Dubuque, Iowa — On this milestone weekend in late May and early June 2026, families, educators, and community members across the city are gathering to celebrate the graduation of three outstanding groups of young adults: the Class of 2026 from Dubuque Senior High School, Hempstead High School, and Walhert Catholic High School. These graduates are stepping into the next chapter of their lives after navigating a high school experience marked by resilience, adaptation, and remarkable achievement.

A Shared Journey Through Unique Paths

Each of Dubuque’s three high schools offers a distinct educational environment, yet they all contribute to the rich tapestry of opportunity in this historic Mississippi River city.

Dubuque Senior High School, with its deep roots as one of the oldest public high schools in Iowa, continues its tradition of academic excellence and strong community ties. Seniors from “Senior” have long been known for their spirited school pride, competitive athletics, and vibrant performing arts programs. Many members of the Class of 2026 have excelled in Advanced Placement courses, career and technical education pathways, and extracurricular activities that range from robotics competitions to theatrical productions.

Hempstead High School, the city’s other comprehensive public high school, has built a reputation for innovation, diversity of programming, and strong college-preparatory tracks. Hempstead graduates frequently stand out in STEM fields, business education, and visual arts. The Class of 2026 at Hempstead demonstrated particular strength in project-based learning and community service initiatives, reflecting the school’s emphasis on preparing students to be both successful individuals and engaged citizens.

Walhert Catholic High School provides a faith-centered education that integrates rigorous academics with spiritual formation and service. Known for its tight-knit community and emphasis on moral leadership, Walhert’s Class of 2026 has participated in numerous service projects, mission trips, and leadership development opportunities. Their education has blended strong college preparatory curriculum with a values-based approach that prepares graduates to make ethical contributions in whatever path they choose.

Despite their different cultures and traditions, students from all three schools have shared many of the same broader experiences that defined the Class of 2026’s high school years. They began their secondary education in the lingering shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic, adapted to evolving hybrid learning models, and faced the uncertainties of a rapidly changing world—including shifting economic conditions, advances in artificial intelligence, and heightened awareness of mental health and social issues.

Achievements Worth Celebrating

The accomplishments of these graduates extend far beyond earning diplomas. Many have:

•  Earned significant college scholarships and acceptances to respected institutions across Iowa and the Midwest, including the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, University of Northern Iowa, and several private colleges.

•  Completed internships and apprenticeships through partnerships between local businesses, Northeast Iowa Community College, and the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce.

•  Participated in championship athletic seasons, award-winning music ensembles, debate victories, and innovative student-led projects addressing local challenges like environmental sustainability and youth mental health.

•  Demonstrated leadership through student government, National Honor Society, and numerous faith-based and cultural organizations.

These achievements reflect not only the hard work of the students themselves but also the dedication of teachers, administrators, support staff, and families who provided guidance through challenging times.

Looking Forward: Opportunities and Challenges

As the Class of 2026 turns their tassels, they enter a world that is both full of promise and complex in its demands. Many will pursue higher education, while others will enter the workforce directly, enlist in the military, or take gap years for service or personal growth. Dubuque’s strong manufacturing base, growing tech and data center sectors, healthcare industry, and tourism economy offer numerous local opportunities for those choosing to build their careers in the city they know so well.

The graduates face familiar generational challenges—navigating student debt, finding affordable housing, balancing work with well-being, and making sense of rapid technological change. Yet they also carry distinct advantages: digital fluency developed from a young age, greater awareness of mental health resources, and exposure to diverse perspectives through both classroom learning and lived experience.

Community leaders, business owners, and elected officials have repeatedly emphasized their confidence in this class. Dubuque has long prided itself on being a city that supports its youth, from robust scholarship programs to mentorship opportunities and a growing emphasis on workforce development pipelines.

A Message to the Graduates

To the Classes of 2026 from Senior, Hempstead, and Walhert:

Congratulations. You have officially completed one of life’s major rites of passage. The late nights studying, the early morning practices, the friendships formed in hallways and on fields, the disappointments overcome, and the victories celebrated have all shaped you into capable, resilient young adults.

Carry forward the lessons learned in Dubuque classrooms and communities: the value of hard work, the importance of integrity, the power of relationships, and the responsibility to contribute to something larger than yourselves. Whether your next steps take you across the country or keep you close to the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi, know that your hometown celebrates your achievements and looks forward to seeing the positive impact you will make.

The road ahead will include both triumphs and setbacks—that is the nature of growth. Embrace curiosity, practice kindness (including toward yourselves), stay connected to supportive communities, and never stop learning. The world needs your energy, your ideas, and your unique perspectives.

Thank You to All Who Made This Possible

This graduation season also calls for gratitude toward the many people who supported these students: parents and guardians who attended countless events and provided encouragement, teachers who went above and beyond, coaches and advisors who invested extra hours, and community organizations that offered resources and opportunities.

As the Class of 2026 walks across the stage—whether at the Five Flags Center, school gymnasiums, or other venues—they represent not just personal success but the continued vitality of public and Catholic education in Dubuque.

Well done, graduates. The future is yours to shape, and we couldn’t be more proud.

Best wishes for lives filled with purpose, joy, and meaningful achievement.

Celebrate graduation from wherever you are! If you can’t join us in person, tune in live as we honor the Class of 2026. Graduation ceremonies begin tonight with Dubuque Online School at 6 p.m.

---

Saturday’s schedule:
🎓 Hempstead | 10 a.m.
🎓 Dubuque Senior | 3 p.m.

Share this with family and friends so everyone can be part of the celebration.

Links available here: https://www.dbqschools.org/2026/05/graduation-2026-live-stream/