The Inter-Mountain photos by Steve Chamberlain The 2026 graduating Harman High School seniors are, from left, Jaiden Dane Lawrence, Brenden James Harper, Grady James Shifflett, and Lillian Raegan Roy.

HARMAN – Harman High School celebrated its 89th and final commencement ceremony at the school’s gymnasium Wednesday night.

Four seniors made up the 2026 graduating class at Harman, including Brenden James Harper, Grady James Shifflett, Jaiden Dane Lawrence and Lillian Raegan Roy. Harper is this year’s valedictorian and Shifflett was the salutatorian.

Harman K-12 School will close its doors for good next week, at the conclusion of the school year on June 5. The Randolph County Board of Education voted to close Harman in October, and the West Virginia Department of Education approved the recommendation in December.

After Lawrence welcomed guests to the ceremony Wednesday night and Shifflett gave the Invocation, Harman Principal Kelley Shaffer addressed those in attendance.

“This evening is especially meaningful as we recognize the final graduating class of Harman School,” Shaffer said. “For generations, Harman School has been more than a place of learning. It has been a place where students have grown, built friendships, and created lasting memories. It has been a cornerstone of this community — a place of pride, support and connection.”

The Inter-Mountain photo by Steve Chamberlain
Harman High School 2026 Salutatorian Grady James Shifflett received a hug from Harman Advisor Kelly Teter during Wednesday night’s graduation ceremony at the school’s gymnasium.

Shaffer then recognized past graduating students from Harman who were in attendance and asked them to stand, while she recognized them decade by decade, beginning with 1940.

“I would like to recognize our past graduates who are with us this evening,” Shaffer said. “We are grateful for your presence and proud to welcome you back.”

Shaffer then addressed the graduating class and reminded them to thank their parents, guardians and teachers for guidance over the years.

“Tonight is your moment. Each of you made it here through hard work, growth and determination,” Shaffer said. “You’ve faced challenges, kept going, and stayed focused on your goals. Being here tonight reflects your strength and commitment.

“As you move forward, there will be both successes and challenges ahead. Hold true to the values you have developed at Harman School – hard work, respect, responsibility, and kindness. Be proud of where you come from. You are part of a community that will always support you….

“You are not only graduating, you are the final graduating class of Harman School.That is a legacy you will carry forever. Wherever life takes you, lead with integrity, stand with courage, and never forget the place that helped shape who you are today.”

Shiflett then gave his salutatorian speech to his fellow graduates and those in attendance.

“Good evening, teachers, families, friends and, most importantly, the graduating class,” Shiflett said. “Standing here today feels unreal, not because we didn’t work hard enough to be here, but because this moment represents years of growth, failure, laughter, stress and perseverance that shaped us into who we are today… This class is special, not because we had it easier than those before us, but because we will be the last to stand on this stage. That alone makes this moment something we’ll carry with us forever.”

Valedictorian Harper started his speech by thanking those who helped him en route to graduation.

“Well, we made it, through all the ups and downs and attempted closures, we made it,” Harper said. “I’m not much of a public speaker. I have been known to be quiet in class. So, first, I want to thank our teachers, families and community for everything you have done for us…

“Growing up in a small school taught us more than just learning. It taught us how to work hard, help each other, and be thankful for the people around us. As a farmer, I’ve learned that hard work, patience, and faith can get you through almost anything.

“It’s sad knowing our school is closing, because this place is more than just a building. It’s home. It’s memories, friendships, and a community that cared about each student. Even though the doors may close, the lessons and milestones from this school will stay with us forever. Thank you, and congratulations, Class of 2026.”

Advisor Kelly Teter addressed those in attendance and awards were given out by faculty and representatives. Teter presented the Class of 2026 and Roy led the graduates in the tassel turn. Shiflett bid farewell to his fellow students and those attending the ceremony, and Lawrence gave the Benediction.

Interim Randolph County Schools Superintendent Terry George and Randolph County Board of Education member Ed Daniels attended the Harman ceremony, along with newly elected BOE members Denise Campbell and Randy Long. Daniels was the only BOE member to vote against closing Harman School in October, and the only current Board member to attend Wednesday night’s graduation.