Hello RVA

Hello RVA, It is an honor and a privilege to stand up here in front of everyone and share how amazing an experience RVA has been as a student. The friends and teachers I met during the four years I spent here, from 2021 to 2025, have made this journey unforgettable. It has had its struggles and achievements, and I have learned so much here.

This year has been remarkable and passed by so quickly, but it is tricky; it can feel short yet endless. Life is a lot like a staircase. We start with small steps, and as we grow, we move higher and higher, achieving things along the way, such as a new job or a new pet. Just like wood is affected by time, we are all influenced by it. It’s important to remember how we want to spend our time— cherishing those we love, whether they are family, friends, or even pets. We should hold onto the memories we create together, as they can be passed down through generations.

Today, we celebrate our new steps in life and the new doors that open for us as students. Growing up, I learned many valuable lessons and cherished those who have cared for me and helped me grow. I want to thank my teachers for their support since I started at RVA in 9th grade. It's funny how I came to this school and thought I wouldn't grow or benefit; I also wondered how I would keep up with classes while managing my time independently. However, all the teachers in RVA were incredibly kind. I loved participating in meet-and-greets on Tuesdays and Thursdays during 9th grade because they allowed me to talk with teachers about assignments and learn new concepts I didn’t quite understand. They were supportive and made my high school years enjoyable and memorable.

To all the teachers I've had throughout high school, thank you for having me as your student. I am grateful for each one of you. It was tough to answer when kids asked me who my favorite teacher was because I loved all my teachers, and each class was unique and fun. I have learned so much from each of you, and I hope to carry that knowledge and those experiences as I continue in life. You will all remain in my thoughts and heart.

I also want to thank my parents for being there for me through every triumph and struggle. You have moved mountains for me and provided everything I could need. Thank you, I would not be the man I am today without your guidance and support.

There is someone I hoped would be here today, watching me gradu ate— Lainey. My sister, even though you aren’t here physically, I know you’re looking down on me, saying, “Brother,” or “Landon,” probably on your phone while I give this speech. You were my shoulder to cry on during tough times and filled my childhood with cherished memories. You are my motivation to keep going through every struggle, every test I face, and every moment of sparring in martial arts. I remember what you meant to me and how much I love you. I know you are proud of me, and I will always love you for being my little sister.

As we, as students, move forward in life, I see hope, opportunity, joy, and many more memories waiting for us. Each accomplishment is like a step on a staircase, bringing us closer to a life filled with memories, adventures, and loved ones, near and far. I know there are more stories to be told, and there will always be love, hope, challenges, and losses. There may be struggles and failures, but as long as we keep our memories close and our ambition alive, we will persevere.

Take every moment you can. Never be afraid to try something new. If you feel you are too far off the edge or about to fall, don’t be afraid to pull yourself back up. Think about how much fun you can have as you continue climbing. While some steps may be broken, or you may fear going further, just remember what could be waiting for you as you keep going. When you reach the top and look back, you’ll see that every struggle, loss, and pain was a part of your journey. Each challenge has shaped you, and you can take pride in how far you’ve come. Embrace every moment, no matter how small, as we continue to grow. The greatest adventure is what lies ahead. Thank you. — Landon Finch, RVA Class of 2025

Landon Finch is from Brillion, Wisconsin, and has been RVA student since his freshman year in 2021.

Landon Finch