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Ladies and gentlemen, this is open to the public. If you feel comfortable when you’d like to stop by and watch the very beginning, it’s called a grand entry where all the dancers come in. Please stop by at the beginning of each session. And if you wanna look at vendors and find some good things to buy again stop on by.

Have a great weekend!

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STEWART FATHER’S DAY POWWOW 2026 SCHEDULE

The Nevada Department of Native American Affairs is proud to host the annual Father’s Day Powwow from June 19–21, 2026. Save the schedule so you don't miss a single moment of spectacular traditional dancing, powerful drumming, and incredible local arts, crafts, and food vendors!✨

Event Details:🗓️ June 19–21, 2026

📍 5500 Snyder Ave, Carson City, NV🎟️ FREE Admission & Parking
🚫 Strictly Drug & Alcohol-Free Event
Bring your lawn chairs and the whole family to celebrate Indigenous culture, community, and fathers.
See you there! 👇

This morning, I had the privilege of attending the North Valleys High School Class of 2026 Graduation Ceremony at Lawlor Events Center, and the atmosphere inside the arena was absolutely magnificent.

From the moment the ceremony began, the energy in the house was electric. Families packed the stands, graduates were fired up, and there was a genuine sense of excitement and pride throughout the entire venue.

The North Valleys JROTC Color Guard was outstanding. Their drill and ceremony performance was “snap, crackle, pop” sharp, disciplined, synchronized, and right on cadence. They represented their school with professionalism and pride, setting the tone for a memorable morning.

The music programs were equally impressive. The band, orchestra, and choir brought energy and emotion to the ceremony, showcasing the incredible talent that exists at North Valleys High School. Their performances helped create an atmosphere that was both celebratory and inspiring.

The student speakers delivered messages that were thoughtful, energetic, and motivating.

One student who particularly stood out was Natalia Aguon. Her free-spirited, go-get-’em attitude was contagious. She brought authenticity, confidence, and enthusiasm to the stage, reminding her classmates to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.

Principal Tomas Macaluso delivered a message that resonated with students and families alike. Using an analogy from Toy Story, he reminded graduates about growth, friendship, purpose, and having the courage to continue moving forward into the next chapter of life. Thank you, Tomas, for those inspiring words and for your leadership.

What stood out most was the culture that has been built at North Valleys High School. The pride, school spirit, leadership, talent, and support for one another were evident throughout the ceremony.

To the Class of 2026: do not be afraid to fail. Failure is often the pathway to growth, learning, and success. Have the courage to take the next step, even when the road ahead is uncertain. Believe in yourselves, work hard, and continue striving toward your goals.

Congratulations, Panthers. Your future is bright, and we cannot wait to see what you accomplish next.

🎓🐾 North Valleys High School Class of 2026 🐾🎓

Day Three of Washoe County School District Senior Graduations Wahoo!

Today at the Lawlor Events Center, I had the honor and privilege, along with my fellow Washoe County School District Trustees, to celebrate two outstanding graduating classes: the Spanish Springs High School Cougars and the Reed High School Raiders, Class of 2026.

Spanish Springs High School, led by Principal Sean Hall, has much to celebrate. The Cougars captured their first-ever Class 5A Nevada State Football Championship and witnessed a historic milestone when two graduating seniors became the first students in Nevada history to earn the State Seal of Biliteracy in Northern Paiute. This achievement represents an important step forward in preserving and revitalizing Indigenous language and culture.

The Spanish Springs JROTC Color Guard proudly presented the colors, and Cougar pride was on full display with the beautiful cougar mount displayed below the stage, donated by the family of a former student.

At Reed High School, Principal Josh Rosenbloom delivered a heartfelt and original message centered on students and families. His remarks reflected the dedication, sacrifice, and support that helped bring graduates to this important milestone. Reed continues to demonstrate strong academic growth and student success, and the Raider spirit was evident throughout the ceremony.

Both schools showcased the incredible talents of their students through outstanding performances by their orchestras, bands, and choirs during the singing of our National Anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner. The performances were exceptional and highlighted the importance of music and the arts in our schools.

The JROTC programs from both schools were equally impressive. Their professionalism, precision, and leadership reflected the very best of our students. Reed’s drill and ceremony performance especially energized the crowd and brought the audience to its feet.

We also cannot forget the many individuals who worked behind the scenes to make these ceremonies such a success. Thank you to the announcers, ushers, event staff, custodial teams, security personnel, volunteers, teachers, counselors, administrators, and countless others whose enthusiasm, professionalism, and commitment to excellence ensured these graduations ran smoothly and efficiently.

Today was more than a graduation ceremony. It was a celebration of achievement, perseverance, leadership, culture, family, and community.

Congratulations to the Spanish Springs Cougars and Reed Raiders Class of 2026! Your accomplishments have made your schools, families, and community proud.

The future is bright. Go Cougars! Go Raiders!

It was my distinct pleasure to attend the Washoe County School District graduation ceremonies for Sparks High School, Wooster High School, Galena High School, and Robert McQueen High School alongside fellow trustees.

Throughout the ceremonies, I had the privilege of recognizing students for their outstanding academic achievements, Career and Technical Education (CTE) endorsements, State STEAM Seals, scholarships, leadership, service, and perseverance.

I was particularly impressed by the exemplary professionalism and leadership demonstrated by the JROTC Color Guards, who conducted several ceremonies with utmost honor and dignity.

These young leaders embody the values of service, discipline, and commitment that strengthen our schools and community.

Each school showcased its unique culture and traditions, yet one constant remained evident: our students are prepared to embark on the next stage of their lives.

Whether they pursue higher education, military service, apprenticeships, technical training, or enter the workforce directly, they depart with the requisite knowledge, skills, and experiences to excel.

To the Class of 2026, I extend heartfelt congratulations on this remarkable achievement. Your future is promising, and our community is enriched by your presence.

I would like to express gratitude to the families, educators, staff, coaches, counselors, administrators, and community partners who have supported these students throughout their journey.

Congratulations, Class of 2026, on your well-deserved success; we are proud of your accomplishments.

Today, I represented with the Washoe County School District Board of Trustees who had the honor of attending day one of graduation ceremonies at the Lawlor Events Center celebrating students from the Academy of Arts, Careers and Technology (AACT), the Debbie Smith Career and Technical Education Academy (DSCTA), and RiSE Academy for Adult Achievement.

Each of these schools represents a unique pathway to success, and together they showcase the many opportunities available to students throughout the Washoe County School District.

AACT students have excelled in academics, the arts, and career-focused programs that prepare them for college, careers, military service, and leadership opportunities. Their creativity, talent, and dedication were on full display as they celebrated this important milestone.

The Debbie Smith Career and Technical Education Academy continues the legacy of Debbie Smith’s vision for hands-on learning and workforce preparation. These graduates leave with valuable technical skills, certifications, and experiences that will serve them well as they enter college, apprenticeships, military service, and Nevada’s workforce.

RiSE Academy graduates demonstrated extraordinary perseverance and determination. Many returned to school while balancing careers, family responsibilities, and life’s challenges. Their accomplishments are a powerful reminder that it is never too late to pursue an education and achieve your goals.

I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the principals, teachers, counselors, support professionals, district staff, student musicians, volunteers, and all those working behind the scenes who made these ceremonies possible. Your dedication and commitment to students are deeply appreciated.

A special thank you to the Reno Fire Department Color Guard and the Reno High School JROTC Color Guard for their professionalism and service in helping make these ceremonies memorable and meaningful for our graduates, families, and community.

The student speakers were outstanding, sharing personal stories of resilience, growth, and hope for the future. The remarks delivered by the principals were equally inspiring, heartfelt, and a testament to the relationships they have built with their students and school communities. Their words reflected the journeys, challenges, and accomplishments of the Class of 2026 and reminded us all of the power of education to transform lives.

Most importantly, congratulations to the Class of 2026. Today we celebrated not only diplomas, but the hard work, determination, perseverance, and sacrifice that brought each graduate to this moment.

As a WCSD Trustee, it is a privilege to witness these accomplishments and celebrate alongside students, families, educators, and our community.

Congratulations, Class of 2026! Your future is bright, and we are proud of all you have achieved. 🎓

Today I had the opportunity to travel to Empire and Gerlach to attend the Gerlach K-12 Graduation Ceremony.

On my way to Gerlach, I stopped in Empire and spent some time at the memorial that recognizes the rich history of this unique Nevada mining community.

Standing there and reading about the generations of people who helped build and sustain Empire was a reminder of the important role these rural communities have played in the history of Washoe County and northern Nevada.

When I arrived in Gerlach, I met up with fellow WCSD Trustee Alex Woodley. We enjoyed a cup of coffee together and had the opportunity to visit before the graduation ceremony. It is always valuable to spend time in our rural communities and see firsthand the incredible work being done on behalf of students.

The graduation ceremony itself was outstanding. Principal Stacey Black did a phenomenal job. Her remarks were thoughtful, articulate, and heartfelt, and it was clear how much she cares about her students, staff, and community.

One of the things that made this ceremony so special was that it celebrated the entire school community. Kindergarten students were recognized for their accomplishments, several students received awards and recognition for their achievements throughout the school year, and families, staff, and community members came together to celebrate student success.

A special congratulations goes to graduate McKinna Kade Thomas, whose hard work and dedication earned her multiple scholarships and awards. Her accomplishments reflect not only her commitment to excellence, but also the support of her family, teachers, and community throughout her educational journey.

What impressed me most about Gerlach K-12 was the strong sense of community. The graduation program acknowledged the many organizations, volunteers, and community partners who support the school year-round. It was a powerful reminder that student success is truly a community effort.

Thank you to Principal Stacey Black, the Gerlach K-12 staff, families, and community members for the warm welcome and for allowing me to share in such a meaningful celebration.

Congratulations to the Gerlach K-12 Class of 2026 and all of the students recognized during today’s ceremony.

🦁 One graduate. One community. Endless possibilities.

Congratulations TMCC High graduates! 🎓

Today, June 3 at 4 p.m., we celebrated at Truckee Meadows Community College, Red Mountain Building.

Trustees and Staff handed out over 100 diplomas 🙌🏽😇

and we are of our TMCC High graduates!

TMCC High School Graduation!
Today, June 3rd at 4 p.m., Truckee Meadows Community College- Red Mountain Building

and we are of our TMCC High Graduates!

Last night, I had the privilege of joining students, families, staff, alumni, and community members for the Sunset Goodbye to Stead Elementary School.

As the sun set over the playground one final time, we reflected on the generations of High Flyers who learned, grew, and built lifelong memories at Stead. The evening was filled with stories, laughter, and appreciation for a school that has meant so much to so many.

Schools are more than buildings. They are places where children discover their potential, educators inspire excellence, and communities come together. Last night reminded us that the true heart of Stead has never been the structure itself it has always been the people.

Thank you to Principal Ryan Doetch, the dedicated staff, current and former students, families, and alumni who gathered to celebrate the legacy of this remarkable school. Thank you as well to everyone who shared memories and helped make the evening so meaningful.

As we prepare to open the new Stead Elementary School, we carry forward the traditions, pride, and spirit that have defined the High Flyers for generations. And yes, some traditions, like kickball on the playground, are simply too important to leave behind.

Stead’s motto says it best: “Better Together.” I believe in that as well.

And as the High Flyers proudly remind us:

“Once a High Flyer, Always a High Flyer.” May the legacy continue!

Thank you, Old Stead, for the memories. Your legacy will continue to soar.

I have included photos of some of those who spoke and shared memories last night. I apologize if I do not have everyone’s names. If you recognize someone pictured, please share their name in the comments and help give them the recognition they deserve for preserving and sharing the history of Stead Elementary School.

Today I attended the Marvin Picollo School Class of 2026 Graduation Ceremony alongside a fellow trustees. It was a heartfelt celebration of student achievement, perseverance, and growth.

The ceremony was a reminder that success comes in many forms and that every student’s journey deserves recognition.

I want to thank the teachers, paraprofessionals, therapists, support staff, administrators, bus drivers, and everyone who supports these students each day. Your dedication and commitment make a lasting difference in the lives of students and their families.

Thank you for helping students achieve their goals and preparing them for lives of independence, self-determination, and opportunity.

Congratulations to the Marvin Picollo School Class of 2026! We are proud of you and excited for all that lies ahead.