Walk of Fame 2025 – And Then There Was One

We’ve celebrated a lot of things over the years, but the Last Day of School Walk of Fame has always been my favorite. It’s not elaborate or expensive, but it brings me more joy, pride, and excitement than any other tradition. It’s a small, intentional way to remind the boys how deeply they are loved and just how proud we are of them. For year fourteen, we were down to just one… and what a year it’s been.

Just like I’ve done every May since John finished kindergarten, I lined the sidewalk with signs celebrating the year’s accomplishments – big and small, in and out of the classroom. I print 10–11 pages for each child on cardstock and stake them along the driveway. I keep a notebook all year long where I jot down things I know they’re proud of, as well as the moments that have made us proud as parents. The Walk of Fame honors not just the grades and accolades, but the growth, milestones, and the heart behind it all.

It’s hard to believe Whit is halfway through high school. This year, he tackled his toughest academic schedule yet, with a full load of honors and AP classes, and still held his place on the highest honor roll all year long. He handled it all with his usual calm, collected nature, never once stressing over the workload. (stressing no, complaining yes).

He continued to shine on the cello, auditioning for (and making) chamber orchestra for next year. We love hearing him play.

Whit wrapped up Sophomore year as MVP of the Varsity Golf Team, earning a bar for his letter at the end-of-year banquet.

He logged 75 hours of community service, all entirely on his own. About two-thirds of his time was spent with K-9 Corps, a student group that trains and researches bloodhounds under the guidance of a retired Secret Service officer. Whit served as Vice President this year. He gave the rest of his time to serving senior citizens and young adults with special needs – playing soccer, working summer camps, weekend bingo, and weekday hangouts. His school doesn’t require or track hours. He simply gives because that’s who he is.

He started the semester in a culinary class but quickly realized he preferred to be his own boss in the kitchen. He pivoted to Drafting, which surprised us (especially since he’s never liked art… anyone remember the time he got kicked out of art in elementary school and was SO PLEASED?) but he loved it and created some seriously impressive projects. (This one was inspired by an anime cartoon he loves.)

Whit continues to be involved in our church, makes time for his puppies, his friends and his video games, and never stops surprising us with his big heart, quick wit, and sense of self. I look at this picture of my “baby” and wonder where the time has gone.

CONGRATS Whit. We are so proud!

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