Bighorn news: Holidays and Homecoming

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: JASON NEUMANN 

Senior Jason Neumann wants to make a difference in the lives of kids in the foster care system. It’s something he knows about firsthand.

“After graduation, my plan is to help foster children who struggle with trauma and pain. I am passionate about making a difference in their lives because of my life,” Neumann said.

Neumann knows the ups and downs of foster care.

“I have spent years in the foster care system. I have had pain and hardship, loss and sorrow. As well as success, love and hope. I plan to start a Ministry called The House of Fire that would help provide the help and support foster children need," he said.

Neumann has a few people he’d like to thank for his success during school.

“There are several mentors and teachers at Oasis that I would like to thank. Mr. Eric Grimes, Mr. Andy Lenon, Mr. Evan Brandt, Fenn Mackedon, and countless others played a significant role in my success at Oasis. Their guidance, support, and belief in me fueled my determination to strive for greatness,” he said.

Counselor Andy Lenon’s relationship is especially important to the senior.

“My time with Mr. Lenon has been so much fun and we have a great relationship. I am truly grateful for his mentorship, encouragement, and belief in me,” he added.

Grimes’ government class was Neumann’s favorite.

“Out of all the classes I took at Oasis, my favorite was Government with Mr. Grimes. I enjoyed this class because it gave me an opportunity to express my opinions and engage in debates and discussions. It taught me the importance of critical thinking as well civic responsibility,” he explained.

Although he only started at Oasis his junior year, there are countless memories and friendships the senior has made. He has been active in school participating in basketball, archery, and baseball this season.

“My time at Oasis has been memorable. Every day brought something new, and I learned a lot about myself and others during my time here. Oasis truly helped me become the person I am today,” Neumann said.

Neumann has advice for future students as well.

“My advice would be to embrace new experiences and step out of your comfort zone. You can't discover new oceans if you are not willing to lose sight of the shore. So take advantage of any opportunities presented to you, be it joining clubs, trying out for sports teams, or taking challenging classes. Explore your passions, invest time in building meaningful relationships, and never stop learning and growing,” he said.

HOMECOMING ACTIVITIES 

Oasis Academy celebrated Homecoming with a spirited week including a staff versus student volleyball game, dress up days, student activities, and ending with the traditional Homecoming Dance. This year’s theme was Winter on the Beach.

High School Student Council planned the activities and kept students involved. The week started with the annual staff versus student volleyball game at the Venturacci Gym with staff winning this year.

Festivities continued with dress-up days, a karaoke night, a white elephant gift exchange, and finally the dance at the Fallon Youth Club. Over 100 students attended the dance this year.

“Huge shout out to Student Council and Eric Grimes for a fun filled week and awesome dance,” added Rochelle Tisdale, interim executive director.

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS CONTINUE

During the holiday season many classes and grades have developed fun traditions. The project-based activities not only provide educational opportunities in the classroom but focus on service and community.

Mrs. Julie Stockard’s tenth grade classes hold an annual potluck with dishes that are part of each student’s family traditions. Students present their dishes as part of a lesson before they read and study a Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens.

Eighth graders look forward to caroling and a gift exchange each year. Students meet at school and ride on a flatbed truck, driven by Hiskett and Sons, throughout town singing Christmas songs. They then return to school for hot cocoa and a gift exchange.

Other traditions include caroling in the Maker’s Space for kindergarten through second grade and the middle school dance in the cafeteria.

“There’s a lot of great things happening throughout the school. Everyone is definitely in the holiday spirit while continuing to focus on academic standards. We have a very impressive staff,” Tisdale said

This year, the staff did a favorite things gift exchange for the second year. Participants brought in three of one of their favorite things. Items included milk frothers, lotions, soaps, treats, and more. Each person then went home with three new things.

Staff also surprised students by dressing up each day the week before school was released. Students were surprised to see teachers and administrators in ski gear, reindeer costumes, snowman outfits and finally their favorite holiday sweaters.