SPRING VALLEY – On Wednesday night, May 6, 2026, approximately 150 people gathered in the gymnasium at Spring Valley High School to celebrate the accomplishments of the 48 students graduating as members of the SVHS Class of 2026 during the school’s annual Scholarship and Awards Program.
The evening began with desserts and fellowship before scholarship and award presentations from community organizations, local and regional businesses, school organizations, and colleges and universities. Junior Class President Isaac Koenning welcomed guests and opened the ceremony.
Chris Segerstrom, middle-high school principal, recognized students pursuing a variety of postsecondary paths, including the Armed Services, technical colleges, four-year universities, and the workforce. Members of the Junior Class, along with advisors Mrs. Rachel Traynor and Mrs. Becky Leland, hosted the event.
A total of $115,250 in scholarships and awards was presented during the evening. More than $43,750 came from local and regional scholarship funds, while nearly $71,500 was awarded through Wisconsin state scholarships and college tuition awards.
Students participating in organizations and programs including FFA, Art, Music, and the Youth Apprenticeship Program were also recognized.
Ella Stangl and Collin Brunner were honored as Dunn-St. Croix 2026 Scholar-Athletes, while Addison Neidermyer and Collin Brunner earned recognition as WIAA Scholar Athletes.
Department awards recognizing outstanding achievement in academic and elective areas were presented to:
Toby Shafer — Agriculture
Moss Leslie — Choir
Madeline Lopez Viveros — Spanish
Emma Buck — English
Milli Vanasse — Mathematics & Science
Collin Brunner — Physical Education
Jonah Secaur — Social Studies
Tyler Vanasse — Technical Education
Karter Dykhouse — Band
Thirteen students graduating with honors were also recognized for their academic excellence. Milli Vanasse was named Valedictorian, while Emma Buck was named Salutatorian. Honors graduates included Addison Neidermyer, Reese Vivoda, Jonah Secaur, Collin Brunner, Ella
Stangl, Elizabeth Koskie, Evah Butts, Karter Dykhouse, Toby Shafer, Madeline Lopez Viveros, and Moss Leslie.
As part of the evening, graduating seniors presented medals of appreciation to staff members who made a meaningful impact during their school careers. Honorees included Mr. Ryan Kapping, Mrs. Michelle Evers, Mrs. Tiffany Schultz, Mrs. Amy Leach, Mrs. Sharla Bauer, Mrs. Debbie Jilek, Mrs. Jalissa Bankston, Mr. Jeff Furrer, Mr. Jon Stimmel, and Mrs. Becky Leland.
The evening concluded with closing remarks and thanks from Class President Addison Neidermyer on behalf of the Class of 2026.
Thanks to the generosity of community donors, organizations, and businesses, the scholarship program continues to provide significant opportunities for graduating students from Spring Valley School District.

Submitted by Spring Valley High School