A fundraising effort is underway to continue the tradition of displaying portrait banners of Rogers High School seniors along Broadway ahead of their 2026 graduation.
The campaign, organized by RHS 2026 Families, has raised $1,955 from 23 donors as of Thursday — about 27% of its $7,500 goal. The project is entirely self-funded through community donations via GoFundMe.
Michelle Leys, who is leading the fundraising effort, said all funds raised will be used to purchase the graduating senior student photo banners for display along Broadway, one of Newport’s main thoroughfares.
“This tradition has brought great joy to all of Newport and allows us to celebrate the amazing accomplishments of our Rogers High School graduates,” Leys wrote in a letter seeking support for the effort.
Leys said the banners represent more than individual student achievements, noting they also reflect the broader community’s investment in local youth through teachers, coaches and local businesses that have supported students throughout their education.
“Our community is reflected in these banners and should be celebrated,” Leys wrote.
Those interested in supporting the effort can donate at the GoFundMe page.
Disclosure: What’sUpNewp made a donation to this fundraiser.
