001free to move to the reserve section at this time. Please note that graduation is a dignified formal academic event. Although it is a joyous occasion, proper decorum at graduation will be would be the same expected expectations at a theatrical performance, church service or wedding. Please help us make this a memorable and dignified celebration of achievement. Upon the announcement of the names, appropriate acknowledgement with applause should be used and recognized for the graduate. Please refrain from continued noise such as cat calls, yelling, screaming, as this distracts greatly from the hearing of the next graduate's name. We would appreciate it very much if you would take responsibility for each person in your party this afternoon, this morning, as their behavior is a reflection upon you and your graduates. Thank you very much. [Music] Good morning. I'm from
002the language justice department and today we are offering interpretation services into Spanish. I'm going to make this announcement in Spanish now. people interpret. Gracias. Thank you. [Music] Good morning, parents, caregivers, family members, platform guests, and the graduating class of 202. [Applause] 25. Please stand or remain standing for the presentation of colors by our JOTC and the playing of the Star Spangle Banner and the playing of lift every voice and sing. 1. Say you see by the dawn. What so proudly we hail at the twilight last gleaming whose bright stripes and bright stars through the perilous or the ramp we were so gallently streaming and The rockets, the bombs bursting in gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. Oh, say that star spank away. [Music] for the land of the free and
003the home of the brave. Lift every voice and sing till earth and heaven ring. Sing with the [Music] harmonies of liberty. Let our [Music] rejoiceing high as the sky. Let his resound loud as the rolling sea. Sing that past. Sing a song full of the hope that the prison has brought. They see the rising sun bey. Till victory is won. [Music] Outward. Please be seated. Good morning, everyone. My name's Rebecca Fox. I'm the coordinator for alternative education here at Richmond Public Schools. Today marks the end of our first school year as a Richmond Success Academy. We are a mighty group that includes five different programs. On behalf of the Richmond Success Academy family, it is my absolute honor and joy to welcome you to our very first graduation ceremony. Today is more than just a
004milestone. It's a moment in history. We here we are here to celebrate a group of extraordinary young people who have worked hard, stayed committed, and now stand ready to take on the world. To all the families, friends, staff, and community members joining us this morning, thank you. Your love, support, and encouragement have played a vital role in making this day possible. And to our graduates, our incredible seniors, I am so proud of each and every one of you. You've overcome challenges and broken barriers and proven what's possible through perseverance and heart. You are the foundation of what the Richmond Success Academy represents, resilience, growth, and excellence. If you are in one of the evening programs, I have, as well as your your teacher, sent 876,372 texts, calls, and emails to get you all working, showing
005up, and to keep you encouraged. today that stops. Okay, I'm kidding about the number, but it was a lot. As you step forward into the next chapter of your lives, I want to leave you with this reminder. Success isn't about having all the answers. It's about having the courage to keep moving forward, even when the path isn't clear. Keep believing in yourselves, keep working hard, and never forget the power you hold to shape your future. Congratulations to the class of 2025, the first graduating class of the Richmond Success Academy. The world is waiting for your light. Go shine. Thank you. I'd like to introduce Principal Cheetum. Thank you, Rebecca. Good morning, dear graduates, faculty, families, and esteemed guests. Together get today we gather to celebrate the incredible achievements of the graduating class of 2025. Each
006of you sitting here has taken a unique path to reach this moment through programs like thrive secondary success and kunganas. You have defied expectations and overcome significant challenges to stand proudly at the threshold of graduation. At this time, I'd like to take a moment to give the audience a brief overview of the programs that make up the Richmond Success Academy. First is Kanganas. Konganas is a student centered program created to empower English lang language learners who face unique challenges on their educational journey. Kanganas offers a second chance to thrive and succeed. The Secondary Success Center is a dynamic program that empowers students to reimagine their path to high school diploma. Designed for learners who thrive outside of the traditional classroom, the center offers a supportive and flexible environment where students can reconnect with their goals
007and gain momentum toward graduation. The Test Taker Academy is a focused and empowered program designed for students who are just one or two steps away from earning their high school diploma. Having completed all course credit requirements, these students return to finish strong by earning the verified credits they need through targeted support and state approved assessments. For all the graduates in attendance, I know there were moments when doubt crept in, perhaps from others or even from within yourselves. Yet here you are, a testament to your resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit. I'm sure your journeys have not been easy, but every obstacle you faced has only made you stronger. This ceremony marks not just an end, but a new beginning. It is a testament to your p perseverance and the limitless potential that lies ahead. As you
008leave Richmond Success Academy, remember this is just the first chapter of your success story. There will be more challenges, more doubters, but each of you presents an opportunity to prove them wrong once again. Today, you stand as Richmond success stories. Embrace this moment, cherish your achievements, and carry forward the lessons learned here. Your journey is far from over. May it be May it be filled with continued growth, courage, and the fulfillment of your dreams. Congratulations, class of 2025. The world awaits your greatness. Thank you. At this time, it is with great pleasure that I present our stage participants. I ask that you hold your applause until each row has been introduced. Each stage participant is asked to stand at his or her name as his or her name is called and remain standing until the
009entire row has been introduced. Seated on the first row to my right, Mr. Solomon Jefferson, chief AC chief academic officer, secondary. The Honorable Shandanda Fernandez, Ninth District Chair. The Honorable Katherine Ricard, second district. And all right. Um, please recognize this row at this time. Thank you. And you may be seated. Seated on the second row starting to my right are Miss Courtney Ward, director of secondary success pathways. Dr. Jennifer Blackwell, director of multi- lang multilingual learner success. Please recognize this row at this time. Thank you. You may be seated. Seated on the first row to my left are Miss Chanel Lewis, assistant principal, Dr. Melissa White, assistant principal. Miss Rebecca Fox, alternative programs coordinator. Ubia Diaz Roas, saludiatoran. Please recognize this row at this time. Thank you. And you may be seated. Seated on the
010second row to my far left is Miss Jerisha Singh, department chair, school counselor, Richmond Success Academy. Miss Julie O'Brien, school counselor. and Miss Michelle Litwat, EL coach. Please recognize this row at this time. Thank you. You may be seated. Our organist today for today's program is Miss Diane Briggs Bacon. Please give her a warm round of applause. In the audience, on the sides of the candidates for graduation are members of the faculty and staff of Richmond Success Academy. Now, will the faculty and staff please stand and be recognized at this time. Thank you. And you may be seated. And now, ladies and gentlemen, I would like to introduce you to the Richmond Success Academy class of 20205 graduates. Would you please stand and be recognized? [Applause] Thank you. You may be seated. We thank each
011of you for coming this morning and sharing in our 2025 commencement ceremony. Ladies and gentlemen, after greetings from the Honorable Shander Fernandez, 9inth District School Board representative and chair, the program will proceed as print as pres as as printed. Excuse me. Good morning everyone. My name is Shiovanda Dix Dixon Fernandez and I have the honor of serving as chair of Richmond City School Board and the proud representative of the 9inth district. On behalf of the Richmond City School Board, I want to say how incredibly proud we are of each and every one of you. Today is not just about walking across the stage. It's about walking into your future. You've shown what it means to push through, to stay focused, and to believe in yourself even when the odds tried to tell you otherwise. That
012takes strength. That takes courage. It takes heart. And you've got all three. You're not defined by the challenges you faced. You are defined by the way you've met those challenges head on and kept going. That's what makes today so powerful. You didn't just make it here. You earned this moment. Let me also take a moment to honor the families, friends, staff, and faculty who have stood by your side and have helped carry these graduates to this milestone. You are a vital part of today's celebration as well and we sincerely thank you. Let me remind you of this graduates. Making a mistake doesn't mean your story is over. In fact, it often means your story is just starting. Take Oprah Winfrey for example, one of the most successful and influential women in the world. Early in
013her career, she was fired from her first television job and told she was unfit for TV. Can you believe that? But instead of letting that define her, she used it as fuel. And today, she's a media mogul and philanthropist whose name is known around the globe. What that shows us is this. It's not always how you start. What's important is how you finish. So today, I want you to hold your head up high. Know that your story matters. You matter. The world needs your voice, your brilliance, your resilience. Don't ever let anyone count you out, including yourself. As Nelson Mandela once said, "The greatest glory in living lies not in never failing or falling, but it it's in rising every time you fall. And you have risen. The future starts right now. Not tomorrow, not
014next year, right now. And it's yours for the taking. So congratulations, class of 2025. Keep rising. Keep believing and keep showing the world what you are made of. Thank you. Hey, Richmond Public Schools class of 2025. It's your mayor, Danny. I'm not just your mayor, but I'm also a proud Richmond public schools dad. And I am so excited and honored to be celebrating you today, RPS graduates. You did it. Graduation is a huge milestone and I want you to know how proud I am. Not just as your mayor, but as someone who believes deeply in the power of our young people. You have shown strength, determination, and a whole lot of heart to get here. Through every challenge, every late night, every test, and every new experience, you kept going. And today, you're walking across
015that stage as a graduate. That is no small thing. at his amazing work. Some of you have overcome big challenges, family struggles, health issues, school pressures, or just figuring out who you are and what's next. And yet, here you are. You didn't give up. You kept moving forward. And we see you. To the families, teachers, school staff, and everyone who supported you, thank you. It truly takes a village and you've been that village for these incredible young people. Class of 2025, your future is bright. Richmond needs your energy, your creativity, your passion, and your voice. Whether you're heading to college, a career, the military, or something uniquely your own, I hope that you carry with you pride in who you are and where you come from. You're part of the story of this city, and
016I believe in you with my whole heart. Congratulations graduates. Go out and shine. Richmond is cheering you on. Well, I know this segment is not in the program, but we just couldn't let this day pass without acknowledging some of the amazing achievements of the graduating class before me. Buenos. Good morning, faculty, parents, guardians, family members, and most importantly, the Richmond Success Academy graduates of 2025. My name is Julie O'Brien. It's an honor to stand before you today as the evening program school counselor serving students in Konganas Secondary Success and Test Taker Academy programs. Today is a day of celebration, a day when we come together to recognize your accomplishments, your dedication, and the incredible resilience you've demonstrated to get to this moment. as faculty members of Aspire, Konganis, Richmond Success Academy, Secondary Success Center, Test
017Taker Academy, and Thrive. We stand before you with overwhelming pride as we've had the privilege to witness the remarkable efforts you've made to overcome obstacles, pursue your goals, and thrive in the face of adversity. The students in front of us today are not just high school graduates. They are warriors. Graduates, you are parents, full-time employees working upwards of 60 hours a week and self-supporting individuals who have faced unique challenges that many others will never fully understand. You have balanced multiple responsibilities while pursuing your high school diploma in a non-traditional setting, and your accomplishments are nothing short of extraordinary. Many of you have juggled the demands of work, school, and family. And Angelie Barahona Gonera stands as a shining example of this incredible strength. As a working parent, Angelie has shown her child and all of
018us that hard work and sacrifice shape a better future. And that parenthood doesn't pause your dreams, it propels them. Angelie, we are incredibly proud that you'll be continuing your education at Reynolds Community College, pursuing your degree as a registered nurse. You are without a doubt a role model to your daughter and to working mothers everywhere. Most of you have balanced full-time jobs with your education. Like Jeremiah Robinson, or as I call or as I call him, the legendary Jay, Jeremiah worked upwards of 60 hours a week as a supervisor at Amazon, all while completing I can't see my kids with with the glasses on. So, it all while completing classes and passing the test required for graduation. He'd finish evening classes, head straight to an overnight shift, and still show up brighteyed and ready for
019early morning so testing. Yes. That kind of commitment isn't just admirable, it's extraordinary. And through it all, he carried himself with positivity, humility, and relentless drive. Jeremiah, your work ethic and spirit have left a lasting impression on all of us. It will undoubtedly serve you well at Reynolds Community College as you pursue an associates degree in business [Applause] management. Many of you have had to navigate this journey without a full support system. And Irma Ramirez Lopez is a powerful example of what it means to rise on your own. Originally from Honduras, Irma has faced the challenges of building a life and pursuing her education without family nearby. With strength and quiet courage, she has supported herself financially while staying focused on her goals. Ma, your resilience is nothing short of inspiring. Not only have you
020overcome hardship, but you've also achieved academic success, earning the highest score in the district on the KIPP US History 1 exam and securing three college credits in the process. Your story is living proof that with determination or congas, anything is possible. Many of you started this on a different time. Started this journey on a different timeline. And Galana Plener has is a shining reminder that it's not where you start, it's how you finish. A year ago, Jalana enrolled in Thrive Academy with only a handful of high school credits. But what she lacked on paper, she more than made up for in purpose. Through credit recovery, extended summer learning, and an accelerated plan aligned to her goals, Jalana charted her own course to success. She met every challenge with grit and grace, lifting others as she
021climbed and quietly becoming a powerful force in our community. This fall, she'll begin her next chapter as a Trojan at Virginia State [Applause] [Music] University. Galana's story is proof that with resilience and relentless effort, anything is possible. Despite the unique paths walked by students like Angelie, Jeremiah, Irma, and Galana, the Richmond Success Academy class of 2025 is nothing short of extraordinary. Together, they have completed over 700 egenuity courses and exceeded state testing requirements. An accomplishment that speaks to their discipline, resilience, and unwavering commitment. And they didn't stop there. More than a dozen graduates have earned the Virginia career and technical education seal and 15 graduates have earned the seal of biiteracy. A distinction a distinction that tells colleges and employers this student has the rare superpower of being bilingual. Graduates, you've proven that no matter
022the road, you rise, you excel, and you thrive. You are stepping into your next chapter, whether it's college, military service, military service, or continued growth in the workforce with a level of preparation and resilience that truly sets you apart. You carry with you experience and skills that many students have yet to develop. Proof that your journey has already built the strength, the grit, and the spark to take you anywhere you want to go. At this time, I would like to recognize three outstanding members of the Richmond Success Academy graduating class of 2025 for their academic achievements. First, Jennifer Rojas Monte Allegre. Jennifer found a community at the Secondary Success Center after needing to work full-time during the day. Through her dual enrollment and advanced placement coursework, Jennifer earned over a year's worth of college credits
023and will be entering college in the fall as a sophomore. Congratulations, Jennifer. Next, Jonathan Maris Sutton holds the highest academic standing of valictorian with a cumulative GPA of 3.82. His achievement reflects a steadfast commitment to excellence and a drive that has inspired his classmates and teachers alike. Congratulations, Jonathan. Finally, I would like to turn over to the podium to our saludiatoran, Yorivia Diaz Roas, who is ranked second in the graduating class with a cumulative GPA of 3.7. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to share the accomplishments of our amazing students. And please help me welcome Yuri to the [Applause] podium. Good morning friends, faculty, parents, and my fellow Richmond success graduate. My name is Yurivia Diaz Roas and it is an honor to be standing here before you today. As a as a first
024generation graduate, I would like to incorporate Spanish into my speaking as a tribute to all the Hispanic families and students here today. [Music] Before coming to the Richmond Sex Success Academy as a secondary success student, I was a senior at Richmond High School for the arts. During the beginning of my senior year, I was going through a lot and no longer felt connected to my school. I made the decision to work full-time while also focusing on my well-being. I knew that finishing high school would open a lot more doors for me, but I did not want to return to traditional day school. I heard about the secondary success center from my sister who was already a student in the program and thought it would be a better option for me. I could still work full-time
025and finish my classes at night. I had teachers and staff who supported me at at school and I'm very thankful for that. Now I would like to take a moment to extend a thank you to all that made this day possible. First of all, I would like to thank God for guiding our steps and for allowing this great achievement today. He gave us the strength to continue when we didn't think it was possible. Next, I would like to thank my my parents. Without them, me standing here about to graduate would not be possible. You're my strength and gave me everything without having anything. I love you. Thank you, Mom and Dad. much. Gracias, Mommy. [Applause] Puppy. So all the parents, guardians, and family members who gave us everything so that we can be at this
026point of our lives. We thank you to our families here today and those who are not able to be with us. We thank you all for your sacrifices and unconditional support. This diploma not only belongs to those of us who are graduating but to each of you who has helped us fulfill our dreams. You made the impossible possible. Graciasto. [Music] Finally, I want to congratulate my fellow graduates for not giving up. We have proven that hard work does pay off and today we are rewarded. This is only the beginning though. My plans are to take a gap year and then start at JS Reynolds Community College to earn my associate degree and pursue a career as a sound tech sign. No matter what your plan is after graduation, I wish you the best. Don't forget
027to always trust in the Lord with all your plans and they will prosper. Bless you, your family and friends. You are worthy of doing anything that you want in life and do not let anyone take that away from you. Jeremiah 29:1 says, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, to prosper you and not to harm you. plans to give you hope and a future. I pray you all will have a glorious future leading to path of success, happiness, and peace of mind. Remind yourself it is okay to fail. It is okay to stumble. But never give up. [Music] forch. [Music] Gracias. Thank you. [Music] [Applause] Chief Jefferson, honorable members of the of the school board, platform guests, parents, guardians, and to all who are assembled here this morning. We are
028at the portion of the program that we have been patiently waiting for. I dare not stand between issuing the diplomas to the class of 2020 20 of 2025. Chief Jefferson, members of the Richmond School Board, and Superintendent Cameras, I hereby certify that the candidates for gradu graduation seated before us today have completed all of the requirements for high school diploma as required by the Commonwealth of Virginia and the Richmond City School Board and are eligible to receive their diplomas. And before I make it official, I think you've heard the stories of resilience. So, I believe we should all just stand up and give them a huge round of applause for their amazing accomplishments. [Applause] And to the first class of Richmond Success Academy, congratulations. Remember, you're brilliant, you're resilient, and you will you are the
029change in our future. So, let's make it official. On behalf of the Richmond Public Schools administration, we extend our congratulations to you. So by the power vested in me by the Commonwealth of Virginia and the evidence presented to me by Principal Chetum, I hereby certify that the class of 2025 at Richmond Success Academy has met all of the requirements set forth by the Commonwealth of Virginia, the State Board of Education, and the Richmond City School Board, and is eligible to receive their diploma. [Applause] Yia Diaz Roas. [Music] Adira Enia [Music] Adams, Tayana Casey. Melcoin Smith, Melco Smith, Tajir Vaughn, Anthony Williams, Diamond Marie Bradley, Yafrin Alejandro Caseres, Berrera, Takaya Lache [Music] Crawford, Cameron Monae Harris, Tomasia Mack, Marvin Bellencio Jimenez, Barbara Belinda Anel Antonio, Wilbur Joel Aparicio Avarena, Angelie Karolina Barona Bonera, Natalie Karolina Cabrera
030Perez, Rosa Elena Carlo Rodriguez Lispth Contras, Jose Davidid Florian [Music] Revolorio, Elana Abelina Jimenez, Gonzalez. Yeah, it's fine. Yan Dali Lazo Sanchez, Sylvia Aricel Min Shu, Angel Moran, Amaya, Felix, Yvani, Morrene, Ramundo Yahara Listh Pacheco Pacheco Daphne Scarlet Perez Castro Ser Margarita Perez Lopez Irma Magdalena Ramirez Lopez, Darin Michelle Ramirez Valdez, Sandra Mariel Romero Hernandez, Dennis Anibal, Samayoa Arivalo, Y Jennifer Selena Tino Pablo, Kelvin Velasquez Marquez, Hector Alonszo Luis, Sora Lorena Alvarado, Brian Ulysis Barera Mahia. Hey girl. Jaylen Monnique Branch. Henry Joel Cortez [Music] Samayoa Manurva Diaz Roas Emmanuel C Edings Jr. Taquan K. Lambert, Rosara Mahia Flores, Shamaya Lama Melvin, Naelli Nolasco, Hercules, Janiah Nataja Prior, Prior. It's going to be hard for me not to say the legendary Jay. Jeremiah Miles Robinson, Jennifer Roas Montalegre, Naen Lynette Ventura Lopez, Excellent. Would the first
031graduating class of the Richmond Success Academy please stand? Move your tassel from the right to the left at this time indicating transition from student to graduate. Congratulations [Music] Heat. Heat.