If you ask Tavon’s teachers what stands out most about him, they’ll mention his quiet presence first.
“You are quiet but thoughtful, with a smile that lights up the room,” one teacher shared. “I’m proud of the person you’ve become.”
Another added, “You have an ability to make me laugh without even using words.”
Over the years, Tavon has built a reputation for being steady and observant — someone who doesn’t need to be the loudest in the room to make an impact. What’s been especially noticeable this year, though, is his focus.
In this final stretch of high school, he’s locked in — showing stronger consistency across classes and learning how to adjust when things feel challenging. It’s growth that feels earned.
On the lacrosse field, that same confidence shows up. After an injury shifted him from basketball to lacrosse, he picked up a new sport and fully committed — finding something he genuinely enjoys.
Now, as he looks toward what’s next, Tavon is stepping into the future with the same steady determination that has defined his senior year.
Here’s more of his story, in his own words.
What are your favorite subjects in school?
I’ve always liked history. Last year especially — U.S. history, older stuff, recent stuff too. I just like learning about it.
This year I’m actually liking stats, which is my math class. The teacher is really good, and the work isn’t too hard. So that’s been fun.
What has been your favorite extracurricular activity in high school?
Lacrosse.
At first, it was basketball. Then I messed my hand up. But I started playing lacrosse, and I liked it from the start. I hadn’t played before — I just picked it up and was like, “Dang, I like this.” So I just went with it.
Other than catching and passing, a lot of it felt similar to basketball — like defense and plays. Maybe that’s why I started liking it so much.
In what ways have you changed the most between the start of your 9th-grade year and now being in your final year of high school?
I’d say I’ve become more social. I talk to more people now and ask more questions in class.
What has been the best part of attending Steward?
Definitely the community. Since it’s such a small school, we kind of have to build off each other. It’s just a good school — good community, good people.
What has been the most challenging thing about high school? Did UP RVA help you at all in overcoming that challenge? If so, how?
Balancing everything. Stuff outside of school, and making sure you get your work in and stay on track.
UP RVA has definitely helped with that — especially this year.
If you had to do it all over again, would you still be a part of UP RVA? Why?
Yeah, I would.
They’ve helped me through this whole journey, and they’re still going to help me in the future. If I need something, I know I can ask them — or my parents. So yeah, I’d definitely do it again.
What are the 2 or 3 things you want people to know about how UP RVA helps its students?
They’re always there for us — whether it’s school-related or something personal.
They make sure we’re prepared not just for right now, but for college and for the future. I feel like they do a good job of that.
What are you looking forward to in the year ahead?
Going to college. Experiencing that life. Staying on track.
I’m ready. I’m ready for something different.
-Tavon McKenzie
