Deer Isle-Stonington High School announces senior honors

Iris Aldrich named Valedictorian

Deer Isle-Stonington High School announces the class of 2026 honors at an all school assembly. Samuel Robbins, Principal Rebecca Gratz, Sierra Larrabee on the Ipad, Iris Aldrich and Rosalie Bayley. Photo courtesy of Deer Isle-Stonington High School.

April 15, 2026

By staff

DEER ISLE–During an all-school assembly on Feb. 25, Deer Isle-Stonington High School Principal Rebecca Gratz announced senior honors, naming Iris Aldrich as Valedictorian, Sierra Larrabee as Salutatorian, Rosalie Bayley as First Honor Essayist, and Samuel Robbins as Second Honorist.

“We are so proud of all of you and honor your strengths, accomplishments, and achievements over the past four years,” Gratz said. “The four students we honor this morning have demonstrated dedication and diligence in all of their classes over the course of their high school  careers. It is a recognition of their hard work and perseverance in learning and leadership.”

Valedictorian, Iris Aldrich

Iris Aldrich earned the honor of Class Valedictorian with her hard work, perseverance, and academic excellence. She's been an active and engaged student leader, class treasurer, and vice president of the National Honor Society. Iris has been involved in productions at the Reach Performing Arts Center and received the Yale Book Award during her junior year. She earned the highest distinction throughout her four years at Deer Isle-Stonington High School. 

Iris will be attending Mount Holyoke College in the fall.

Salutatorian, Sierra Larrabee

Sierra Larrabee is currently pursuing biomedical sciences at Hancock County Technical Center, and is also taking dual enrollment courses through the Bridge Program at Ellsworth High School. A thoughtful and diligent student, Sierra is also a compassionate citizen, possessing endless potential and has an extraordinary ability to persevere in the face of adversity.

Sierra will attend the fast track Radiology program at Eastern Maine Community College next fall.

First Honor Essayist, Rosalie Bayley

Rosalie Bayley is a motivated and committed student, a talented artist, and an active community member. Rosalie is a commissioned, published artist through visual arts and performing arts and is a part of many productions at the REACH Performing Arts Center. She’s also involved in the community with  the Garden Project in Stonington and Island Angels. 

Rosalie will attend either Lesley University or Wheaton College in the fall.

Second Honor Essayist, Samuel Robbins

Sam Robbins is an active, engaged and deeply motivated student and has strong musical talent and loves local tradition and folklore. He is a multi-instrumentalist, leads intergenerational musicians in local square and contra dances, which brings strength to the community and keeps local heritage alive. Sam builds connections throughout the community with community suppers and square dances. 

Sam will attend Maine Maritime Academy in the fall.