The 2025 Oasis Academy softball team.
Photo by Thomas Ranson.
SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: CORY TODD
As graduation approaches, Oasis Academy senior Cory Todd is preparing to turn the page and begin an exciting new chapter. In a few short weeks, Todd will receive both his high school diploma and Associate of Arts degree from Western Nevada College.
Todd started at Oasis in second grade and has fond memories of his time.
“I thought it was scary being at a new school at first, but I quickly made friends, and it overall created a memorable experience,” he said.
His favorite memories include those friendships.
“One of my favorite memories from Oasis is off campus lunch and hanging out with friends,” Todd added.
Throughout their time at Oasis, certain teachers made a lasting impact for Todd. Specifically, he’d like to thank Mr. Eric Grimes.
“A teacher I’d like to thank is Mr. Grimes,” he said. “I always enjoyed his classes and found them the most interesting and engaging.”
His favorite class was Ancient World History.
“My favorite class was probably Ancient World History because it was fun to learn about different countries and their cultures,” Todd said.
After graduation Todd will be moving to Reno and starting work, eager to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. He does have advice for future students.
“Don’t mess around and get your work done. It makes it easier for you in the future,” Todd closed.
OASIS TEAMS EARN TOP ACADEMIC SPOTS
This week the Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association named the spring season state academic champions. Oasis Academy baseball and softball teams both took the top spots.
According to the NIAA, “The team grade point average is determined by taking the individual unweighted GPAs of varsity team members from last semester and then computing an overall average.”
Rochelle Tisdale, high school principal, said Oasis is proud of the softball and baseball teams earning this academic award.
“This achievement reflects not only their dedication and excellence on the field, but also their commitment to academic success and personal growth,” she said. “Their hard work sets a powerful example for our entire school community, showing that it is possible to excel both as athletes and as scholars.”
The teams are closing out their regular season. Both will advance to the regional tournament beginning on May 9.
ART IN ACTION: JACKSON POLLOCK
Oasis Academy fifth-graders recently turned the playground into a lively art studio as they learned about Jackson Pollock, the famous American painter known for his unique “action painting” style.
After researching Pollock’s life and how he used movement and unusual tools to create his art, students brought items from home – like spoons, whisks, and spatulas – to try his techniques themselves.
Instead of using brushes and easels, students placed their canvases on the floor and used their chosen tools to drip, fling, and pour paint, just like Pollock.
“We learned that Jackson Pollock was very extravagant with his art,” said Grace Miller. “He was known for his improvisational and abstract approach to art. It was also interesting that he hid different things in his pieces. Some people couldn’t see them, but if you really focus, you can see them.”