Class of 2026 Walkthrough

The Simley High School Class of 2026 put on their caps and gowns ahead of graduation to walk the hallways for a final farewell. Seniors walked through both Inver Grove Heights Middle School and their former elementary school in the years-long Inver Grove Heights Schools (ISD 199) tradition. The senior walkthrough gave graduating seniors a chance to thank the teachers, staff, and younger students that helped them reach their next milestone.  

Seniors posed for a photo around the Great Seal in Simley’s foyer before walking by the district office, the cafeteria, and through the middle school. The hallways were lined with students and staff ready to high-five and cheer on seniors. The graduates said tearful goodbyes to former teachers, staff, and younger students as they passed. 

Seniors then headed to their former elementary schools where the scene was repeated with emotional farewells and hugs as elementary students applauded. At Salem Hills Elementary School, seniors who were former students at the school were paired up with graduating kindergarteners in a symbolic “passing of the torch” from those graduating from the district to those just beginning. The event highlighted the connections that students and staff have developed throughout each senior’s time at ISD 199.

The celebrations continued with a special lunch for seniors. The Class of 2026 voted on their favorite cafeteria dishes, and the ones with the most votes were served at lunch on their last day of school. Then, seniors headed outside for the Senior Olympics. Students played games together, took photos, signed yearbooks, and made memories together one more time before their graduation ceremony. 

Congratulations to the Simley Class of 2026, and good luck to them as they take their next step into the future!