I’ve been thinking a lot about how to say goodbye to LCHS—not just to the place, but to the people who helped shape who I’ve become. It’s hard to sum up four years of growing up, figuring things out, and finding my footing, but there are a few people I can’t move forward without thanking.
Mrs. Wallace, Mrs. Clarke, and Mrs. Lambdin—you weren’t just teachers. You were the kind of people who noticed when I needed support, challenged me when I needed it, and believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. I’ll never forget that.
And to my dad—you weren’t in the classroom, but you were always there. Your support, advice, and quiet encouragement meant more than I could ever explain here. You’ve always been my biggest example of what it means to lead with heart.
This letter is a goodbye, sure, but more than that, it’s a thank you—to the people who helped me become the version of myself I’m proud to walk out of these doors as.
In four short years, I have watched people come and go in and out of my life, but I’ve also had the opportunity to have such an amazing group of peers stay consistently motivating me and even pushing me to be the greatest student and person I can be.
While I’ve had great peers throughout high school, I’ve also had my best friend Lily. Without her, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. She picked me up when I was at my lowest and has been there for me ever since. While I’m sad that I won’t be there for her senior year like she was for mine, I will forever be grateful that I had her by my side for the last two years.
Mrs. Wallace, thank you so much for being one of the most supportive and inspiring people in my life these past two years. Your kindness, patience, and encouragement have meant more to me than I can put into words. You’ve been a steady light during times when I needed guidance or just someone to believe in me, and I’ll never forget that. I’m truly grateful for the impact you’ve had on me—not just as a peer, but as someone who genuinely cared.
Thank you for everything. Mrs. Clarke, thank you from the bottom of my heart for always pushing me in the right direction—not just in English papers, but in life and planning for my future. You saw potential in me even when I doubted myself, and your honesty, tough love, and constant support helped shape who I’m becoming. You never let me settle for “just okay,” and that’s something I’ll always carry with me. Whether it was a college essay, a life decision, or a moment of self-doubt, you were there to guide me with both wisdom and heart. I truly don’t know where I’d be without your influence, and I’ll always be grateful for everything you’ve done for me.
Mrs. Lambdin, thank you so much for being more than just a teacher—you’ve truly been like a school mom to me. From every health science opportunity you opened up for me to the way you always checked in, supported me, and believed in my future, you’ve had one of the biggest impacts on my high school journey. You saw something in me and helped guide me toward a path I’m proud of. Your encouragement, warmth, and tough love gave me the confidence to chase my goals, even when things felt overwhelming. I’ll always be thankful for your care, your guidance, and the way you made school feel like home. You’ve changed my life in ways I’ll never forget.
And last but not least, Dad—thank you for being my biggest supporter and toughest coach these past four years. You’ve pushed me when I wanted to give up, challenged me when I got too comfortable, and reminded me of my worth when I couldn’t see it myself. There were times when I didn’t understand why you pushed so hard, but now I realize it was because you believed in everything I could become. You’ve never let me settle for less than my best, and even though I may not have said it enough, I’m so incredibly grateful for that. Your strength, your sacrifices, and your love have shaped me into someone who is ready to face the next chapter of life with confidence and purpose. I’ve carried your lessons with me every step of the way, and I always will. I hope I’ve made you proud, because I’m proud to be your kid.
As I close this chapter and say goodbye to high school, I just want to thank everyone who’s been a part of my journey—whether you pushed me, believed in me, guided me, or simply stood by my side. These past four years have shaped who I am, and I’ll carry all the lessons, memories, and love with me as I step into the next part of my life. This isn’t just a goodbye—it’s a thank you, from the heart.
