RCHS ‘will always be a part of who we are’
Rappahannock County High School held its commencement ceremony May 30, a rainy Friday evening that didn’t dampen the high spirits in the school gymnasium, where 56 seniors received their diplomas and proud families and friends cheered them on.
The graduates will pursue a variety of paths. Twenty-four of them plan to attend colleges and universities including Laurel Ridge Community College, James Madison University, University of Mary Washington, Virginia Commonwealth University, Utah State University, Longwood University, Bridgewater College and Christopher Newport University.
The other 32 graduates will enter trade or vocational programs in fields such as cosmetology, culinary arts, heavy equipment operation, plumbing and engineering. Several students will join the workforce immediately after graduation.
Dr. Mary Jane Boynton, the school’s principal, gave a speech focusing on the importance of hard work and education. She shared a personal story about her father, who worked long hours to support her and her sister. Boynton described how proud her father was — and how emotional — when she called him after receiving her first paycheck from her first education job.
Valedictorian Alexis Gainer delivered a heartfelt speech, reflecting on her favorite memories and friendships formed during her time at the high school. She offered well wishes to her classmates as they prepare for their future endeavors.
“No matter where our paths take us, [Rappahannock County High School] will always be a part of who we are,” said Gainer.
The ceremony celebrated not only academic achievement but also the diverse goals and futures of the graduating class.
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- Brooklyn Renee Grimsley walks across the Rappahannock County High School gymnasium to receive her diploma. (Photo/Sophie McLeod)
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- Daniel Gallardo sits among his fellow graduates in his personalized graduation cap as the ceremony in the Rappahannock County High School gymnasium commences. (Photo/Sophie McLeod)
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- Rappahannock County High School graduate Daniel Garcia receives his diploma from band director Tyler Ende. (Photo/Sophie McLeod)
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- Vincent Angelo Hendricks receives his diploma and a hug in the Rappahannock County High School gymnasium. (Photo/Sophie McLeod)
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- Valedictorian Alexis Gainer walks back to her seat after addressing the graduating class of 2025 in a heartwarming speech. (Photo/Sophie McLeod)
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- Audience members of the Rappahannock County High School graduation sit back and relax as the ceremony commenced. (Photo/Sophie McLeod)
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- An’Aya Korin Payne greets her friend as she walks to her seat for the Rappahannock County High School graduation ceremony. (Photo/Sophie McLeod)
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- A Rappahannock County High School graduate sports their customized graduation cap during the ceremony. (Photo/Sophie McLeod)
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- Tucker Ray Atkins, who plans to pursue engineering at Laurel Ridge Community College, receives his diploma in the Rappahannock County High School gymnasium.(Photo/Sophie McLeod)
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- Graduates listen to the kind words from the teachers and staff of Rappahannock County High School before receiving their diplomas in the gymnasium. (Photo/Sophie McLeod)
