Bighorn Bulletin

Oasis Academy welcomed Dale Erquiaga, former Nevada State Superintendent of Public Instruction and Nevada System of Higher Education Chancellor, as a guest speaker during its staff development sessions held last week. Erquiaga, a Fallon native with deep ties to Nevada education, shared personal stories and insights that encouraged teachers to reflect on both the history and the future of their profession.

Erquiaga began by recounting the legacy of his great-grandfather, who was a pioneer in Nevada education. He reminded teachers that the state’s commitment to learning has always been rooted in determination, innovation, and community.

Turning to today’s classrooms, Erquiaga emphasized the importance of early literacy, highlighting his contribution to the “Read by Grade 3” initiative. He stressed that ensuring every child can read proficiently by third grade is one of the most impactful goals educators can pursue. 

Highlighting the importance of a strong reading foundation, Erquiaga stated that in the early grades students learn to read, and as they progress in their education it becomes students read to learn. 

Erquiaga also spoke about the rapid rise of artificial intelligence in education, urging teachers to view it not as a threat, but as a tool that can help personalize learning and expand opportunities for students. 

He showed teachers and staff the response he received from ChatGPT about if AI would replace teachers.

“It cannot replicate your empathy, your judgment, or the trust you build with students. What it can do is support you – by freeing up time from repetitive tasks, offering new ways to differentiate instruction, and opening up fresh possibilities for student engagement and creativity,” showed Erquiaga.

He closed his talk with a memorable story and piece of advice for the Oasis Academy staff. 

“Look up. When you look up, you can see clearer and further than what’s right in front of you—and the load you carry will be lighter,” he said.

Veteran Educator and Coach John Keitz Joins Oasis Academy Staff

Oasis Academy has welcomed longtime educator and coach John Keitz for the 2025-26 school year. With 35 years of teaching experience, Keitz brings a wealth of knowledge, energy, and dedication to the classroom.

“I have been a teacher for 35 years,” Keitz said. “I started for five years in Brooklyn, then I spent the next thirty teaching in Lovelock, and now I'm at Oasis Academy.”

At Oasis, Keitz will serve as the high school special education teacher while also taking on additional roles that highlight his diverse expertise. 

“I will be teaching the WNC computer science class and the high school robotics class,” he explained. “I am also the high school boys lacrosse co-founder and coach.”

Though education wasn’t his original career plan, Keitz said teaching quickly became his calling. 

“Well, actually, I didn't choose education. Education chose me,” he said. “I had a short hockey career, and after that I went to law school. While I was attending law school at night, my father-in-law (the best teacher I've known) suggested I try teaching. I was hooked and never looked back.”

Keitz shared that what excites him most about joining Oasis is the opportunity to work with its students full-time. 

“The students,” he said. “I have already had the privilege of coaching many Oasis students in lacrosse and robotics, and I am so excited to work with them full time.”

Outside of the classroom, Keitz enjoys family life and a variety of hobbies. 

“I like to spend time with my family, ice skate, watch the Islanders, and play pinball,” he said. 

His connection to Oasis extends beyond his role as a teacher, too. 

“My wonderful wife Kathy has worked at Oasis from its beginning. I also have two sons who both graduated from Oasis Academy and played lacrosse here.”

Santos Returns to Oasis Academy, Ready to Inspire Students

Oasis Academy is welcoming back a familiar face this fall as teacher Melinda Santos returns to the classroom, bringing with her eight years of teaching experience and a passion for helping students succeed.

Santos has taught first, second, and third grade during her career, and this year she is stepping into a new role, teaching K–2 special education students.

“From a pretty early age I knew I wanted to be a teacher,” Santos shared. “Although I had a few different careers before making my way to education, I chose this career because I love watching students experience their own ‘light bulb’ moments. I also like being a positive influence in their lives.”

Her love for her students and her dedication to their success is what makes her most excited about returning to Oasis. 

“I am very much looking forward to seeing some familiar faces and catching up with my previous students,” she said.

When she isn’t teaching, Santos enjoys a wide range of hobbies. 

“I am an avid reader. I love to garden, and I also enjoy baking and crafting,” she said. 

Family is also an important part of her life—her two children, a sixth grader and an eighth grader, both attend Oasis Academy.