Bighorn Bulletin

Third Graders Step Back in Time with Ellis Island Immigration Simulation

Oasis Academy third graders took a trip back in time last week, stepping into the shoes of immigrants arriving at Ellis Island. The activity, part of their history curriculum, gave students a look into what millions of immigrant newcomers went through in the late 1800s and early 1900s when they came to America.

Dressed in period clothing, students went through health checks, baggage inspections, and interviews and even learned what might cause deportation. —just like real immigrants once did. After making it through the process, they received stamps on their passports, earned their citizenship, and recited the Pledge of Allegiance to celebrate the end of their journey.

“One of the things I love most about this project is that we get to teach an important history lesson in a way that truly engages students,” said third-grade teacher Jolene Coverstone. “From researching their own family history to experiencing what an immigrant faced in the 1800s and 1900s, it’s a powerful, hands-on experience.”

Research says Ellis Island processed more than 12 million immigrants between 1892 and 1924, and this activity helped students understand the struggles and opportunities they faced. By stepping into history, students gained a new appreciation for the resilience and determination of those who helped shape America.

Students Advance to State for National History Day Competition

Oasis Academy students are heading to the state competition for National History Day after an impressive showing at the regional event held on March 7 at the Nevada Museum of Art. Students presented their projects to judges and answered interview questions about their work.

Students who placed and will be competing at state:

7th Grade:

Sawyer Schank, first place, individual website

Jackson Frey and Luke Moffitt, second place, group website

Jacob Pilarski, first place, paper

Pia Doyen, first place, individual exhibit

8th Grade:

Mandy Wadsworth, second place, individual documentary

Kinsley Viera and Annie Sorensen, first place, group documentary

Sophia Moya and Jesselle Bayoneta, third place, group exhibit

Students will compete virtually after refining their projects based on feedback from regional judges and have the option to submit recorded responses to interview questions.

“Our 10 students heading to state have worked so hard,” said teacher Kelly Nott. “They’ve taken judge feedback seriously, met with teachers, and fine-tuned their projects. I’m incredibly proud of their dedication and can’t wait to see how they do at the next level.”

Banner Auxiliary Donates Choking Devices to Oasis Academy

With nearly 5,000 deaths per year from choking, veteran registered nurse and school nurse Shawna Harper knew Oasis Academy would benefit from having LifeVac devices readily available at the school’s two buildings. Oasis Academy Registrar Susan Richards knew the perfect group to help and reached out to the Banner Churchill Hospital Auxiliary.

LifeVac is a simple, noninvasive tool designed to clear airway blockages fast. Each kit comes with adult and pediatric masks, making it suitable for anyone in need. Choking can happen in an instant—especially in schools during lunchtime or classroom activities—so having these devices on hand could make all the difference.

Longtime volunteer Doris Joslyn first brought the LifeVac program to the Auxiliary’s attention. The group, founded in 1957, has always been dedicated to supporting healthcare efforts in Churchill County.

“It is our hope that by providing LifeVac for every public school in the county, each will be prepared should a choking incident happen—and hopefully, they never have to use them,” said Auxiliary member Brenda Green.