By Nick Yates, ISB Communications
Published on Friday, May 29, 2026
ISB celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2026 on Saturday, marking a joyful and emotional milestone for students, families, and teachers as our newest alumni crossed the stage and prepared for the next chapter of their lives.
Surrounded by proud family members, friends, and faculty, the graduates were recognized not only for their academic achievements, but also for the growth, resilience, friendships, and experiences that have shaped them during their time at ISB.
For our students, the ceremony was the culmination of years spent learning, growing, and finding their place within the ISB community. For some graduates, that journey began in ISB’s Elementary School, making the occasion especially meaningful for both students and their families.
Two student speakers captured the spirit of the day through thoughtful reflections on challenge, growth, and the opportunities that lie ahead.
In her address, Ophelia H encouraged her classmates to embrace discomfort and take risks, reflecting on the lessons she learned from her peers and teachers during her time at ISB. “Difficult journeys often have the most beautiful destinations,” she told the graduating class.
Fellow student speaker Aidan Z challenged graduates to see the moment not as an ending, but as a beginning. “This world is a playground, and you have free will,” he said. “Remember, the world you see today was built by individual people, and it will be individual people who build tomorrow.”
Together, their messages reflected a class ready to move forward with confidence, purpose, and optimism.
The Graduation Ceremony was also a celebration of the many people who have supported the Class of 2026 along the way. ISB extends heartfelt thanks to the faculty, staff, counselors, coaches, and family members whose encouragement, expertise, and care have helped students reach this milestone.
Throughout High School, students have been supported in identifying pathways that match their strengths, passions, and ambitions. ISB’s University & Career Advisors work closely with students and families to help them explore opportunities and make informed decisions about life after graduation.
As they leave ISB, members of the Class of 2026 will pursue a wide range of next steps. Many have received offers from leading universities around the world, while others will follow different pathways aligned with their individual goals and aspirations. Together, their plans reflect the diversity, talent, and global outlook of this graduating class.
The Graduation Ceremony was one of several memorable moments that marked the final months of the Senior year experience.
Earlier this spring, students took part in the annual Senior Parade through campus, with younger students, parents, teachers, and staff lining the corridors to celebrate and cheer them on. The Parent Teacher Association also organized a Class of 2026 photo shoot at the Temple of Heaven, creating lasting memories at one of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks.
In recent weeks, Seniors completed their International Baccalaureate (IB) examinations, the culmination of a rigorous and globally respected two-year program. Students marked the occasion of their final IB exam with a celebratory Senior Sunset barbecue alongside classmates and teachers. The celebrations continued the day after Graduation with Senior Dinner, one final opportunity for the Class of 2026 to come together before embarking on their next adventures.
Saturday’s ceremony also marked the moment the Class of 2026 officially joined ISB’s global alumni community.
As graduates spread out across the world in the years ahead, they will remain part of a growing network of former ISB students connected by shared experiences, friendships, and a lifelong connection to the school. Through that network, they will continue to build relationships, support one another, and strengthen the ties that unite generations of ISB alumni.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026. We thank you for the energy, character, and contributions you have brought to our community, and we look forward to seeing the many ways you will make a difference in the years ahead.