A Day of Pride and Possibility
The Fertitta Center was alive with pride and possibility as YES Prep Public Schools celebrated Senior Signing Day 2026, honoring a class whose achievements are rewriting what is possible for Houston students. Seniors took the stage to announce, often for the first time, where they will be heading next fall or what career paths they will pursue, sharing that news with family, friends and the wider YES Prep community.
Historic Achievements by the Class of 2026
This year’s senior class, 1,636 students strong, reached a historic milestone. Together, they earned an incredible 12,210 acceptances to colleges and universities and secured more than $100 million in scholarships and financial aid. These numbers represent much more than statistics; they reflect years of commitment from students, families, teachers and staff working together toward a future filled with opportunity.
First Generation Milestones and New Campus Legacy
Senior Signing Day marks the culmination of years of hard work and determination for YES Prep students. For many, this moment is especially meaningful, as a significant number of YES Prep seniors are the first in their families to attend college. Their walk across the stage is not only a personal achievement, but also a powerful signal to younger siblings, neighbors and peers that college and strong postsecondary options are within reach.
Adding to the significance of this year’s celebration, YES Prep Hobby Secondary proudly recognized its very first graduating senior class. Their presence on the floor stood as a symbol of growth across the YES Prep network and the continued expansion of opportunities for students in Houston.
Diverse Pathways to College, Career and Service
Graduates from the Class of 2026 are heading to a wide range of postsecondary pathways that reflect their diverse talents and aspirations. Students have accepted offers from institutions such as Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the University of Notre Dame, the University of Texas at Austin, Princeton University and Vanderbilt University, among many others. In addition to four year universities, YES Prep seniors are also pursuing career and technical education programs, military service and other college and career pathways, demonstrating that success can take many forms.
Leaders Celebrate the Class of 2026
The ceremony featured special remarks from leaders who have championed students throughout their journeys. Mark DiBella, CEO of YES Prep Public Schools, and Isy Castillo, Chief External Officer at YES Prep, addressed the Class of 2026, celebrating their accomplishments and reinforcing the belief that their voices and contributions will shape the future of their communities.
A Lasting Reminder of What Is Possible
As the cheers echoed through the Fertitta Center and seniors proudly declared their next steps, Senior Signing Day 2026 stood out as an enduring reminder of what can happen when high expectations, access to opportunity and unwavering support come together. For the Class of 2026, this is not an ending, but the beginning of a new chapter built on the foundation they have worked so hard to create.
