Maine Indian Education Celebrates the Class of 2026
Wabanaki Graduates Honored for Academic Excellence and Cultural Pride
Calais, MAINE — Maine Indian Education (MIE), the tribally controlled education agency serving the Penobscot Nation and the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township and Pleasant Point, proudly congratulates the Wabanaki students of the Class of 2026 on their high school graduation. This milestone represents not only the academic achievement of each graduate but also the strength, resilience, and continuing brilliance of our Wabanaki communities.
On behalf of the three MIE School Committees, the Joint School Committee, and the entire MIE family, Superintendent Dr. Reza Namin extended heartfelt congratulations to every Wabanaki graduate stepping forward into this next chapter of life.
“Our graduates carry with them the wisdom of their ancestors, the love of their families, and the pride of their Nations,” said Dr. Namin. “Each diploma earned is a testament to perseverance, to the unwavering support of parents and guardians, and to the deep cultural foundations that make our Wabanaki students extraordinary. We celebrate every graduate, and we honor the journey that has brought them to this proud moment.”
Sidizer Bassett — Salutatorian, Shead High School
Maine Indian Education is especially proud to recognize Sidizer Bassett, who has been named Salutatorian of the Shead High School Class of 2026 in Eastport, Maine. Sidizer’s outstanding academic record places him among the highest-achieving students in his graduating class — a remarkable accomplishment that reflects years of focus, discipline, and dedication.
Sidizer is the son of Natalie Love and POS Bassett, whose love and support have helped shape this exceptional young man. His success is a source of immense pride for his family, his community, and the Passamaquoddy Tribe.
“Sidizer represents the very best of our Wabanaki students — bright, grounded, and driven,” said Dr. Namin. “To earn the honor of Salutatorian is no small feat, and we are so very proud of him. Congratulations to Sidizer and to his parents, Natalie and POS, who have walked alongside him every step of the way.
Honoring All Wabanaki Graduates of 2026
While we lift these specific honors, Maine Indian Education recognizes that every Wabanaki graduate of the Class of 2026 deserves to be celebrated across the region. Each graduate has earned this milestone through perseverance, sacrifice, and strength.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the parents, guardians, grandparents, aunties, uncles, elders, teachers, school staff, tribal leaders, and community members who have nurtured these young people from their earliest days at Indian Island School, Indian Township School, and Sipayik Elementary School through to graduation. The success of every Wabanaki graduate is a shared accomplishment — one rooted in the love of family, the wisdom of culture, and the power of community.
“To the Wabanaki Class of 2026: you carry the hopes of generations and the promise of generations yet to come,” Dr. Namin said. “Walk forward with courage, with kindness, and with pride in who you are and where you come from. Maine Indian Education will always be cheering for you.
Maine Indian Education invites all families, tribal members, and community partners to join in celebrating these graduates at the upcoming graduation ceremonies. We wish every member of the Class of 2026 a future filled with purpose, joy, and success.
