Bighorn Bulletin

Students Participate in Dia de los Muertos Activities

Middle and high school students recently embraced cultural learning through a variety of Día de los Muertos activities that blended creativity, history, and community engagement.

In the high school Spanish class, students created colorful altars, or ofrendas, to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away. Each altar was decorated with traditional symbols such as marigolds, candles, photos, and offerings of favorite foods—elements that reflect the deep meaning of the Mexican holiday. 

The activity helped students understand how Día de los Muertos is a celebration of life and memory, rather than sorrow.

On November 1, Spanish students also attended the Día de los Muertos community event at Oats Park, where they experienced the celebration firsthand. The event featured music, art, ofrendas, and food.

“In class, we learned about the different songs, dances, and the celebration of Día de los Muertos,” student Jeremy Heath said. “It was fun to learn about and then see first-hand at the event at Oats Park.”

The middle school drama and video production classes collaborated to create an informational video about the history and significance of Día de los Muertos. Through research, writing, and performance, students explained the symbolism behind common Día de los Muertos traditions.

“Multicultural events are important in public schools because they foster inclusivity, respect, and empathy among students by exposing them to diverse traditions and perspectives. These events help students build social skills, gain cultural awareness, and feel a stronger sense of belonging, which improves their confidence and prepares them for an increasingly diverse world,” said Dane Nott, Oasis Academy K-12 School Leader. 

Local Chef Kelli Kelly Visits to Share Knife Skills with Culinary Students

Oasis Academy High School’s culinary classroom welcomed local Fallon chef Kelli Kelly, who shared her expertise with students. Chef Kelly, known for her passion for fresh, local ingredients and her involvement in the community, spent the day teaching students about different types of kitchen knives and how to use them safely and effectively.

During her visit, Chef Kelly demonstrated several knife techniques, including how to dice onions and peel fruit with precision. Students watched closely as she explained the importance of selecting the right knife for each task and maintaining proper grip and control. 

Chef Kelly’s visit gave students valuable hands-on experience and insight into real-world culinary skills that go beyond recipes. The lesson was part of Oasis Academy’s ongoing effort to connect students with local professionals and help them explore potential career paths.

“It was cool to hear about Chef Kelly's journey to become a chef,” student Emma Cline said. “We learned a lot about knives, including how to cut, which knives to use safely, and to never put a knife in a sink because people may not see it and cut themselves.”

Along with cooking, Kelly currently serves as the Agriculture and Food Systems Business Advisor for the Nevada Small Business Development Center housed at the Churchill Entrepreneur Development Association.

Senior Spotlight: Aidan Clark

Oasis Academy senior Aidan Clark is already paving his own path to success. After graduation, he plans to focus on growing his business — Mannered Mutts — a professional dog boarding and training facility where he not only cares for dogs but also helps train them to be their very best.

“Mannered Mutts is all about providing a safe, structured, and positive environment for dogs,” Clark explained. “I’ll be running a dog boarding and training facility where I train dogs alongside the ones staying with us.”

In addition to earning his high school diploma, Aidan will graduate with his Associate in Business from Western Nevada College, a goal he has worked hard toward throughout his time at Oasis. He credits WNC instructor Mr. Frank deBraga for inspiring him to pursue the business degree track.

“He’s the one who encouraged me to go for the Associate in Business and kept reminding me to stay on top of my classes and meet with counselors to make it happen,” he said.

Aidan first joined Oasis Academy in 7th grade and has been part of the school community ever since. During that time, he has been active in several activities outside of school, including achieving the rank of Eagle Scout through the Boy Scouts of America — an accomplishment that strengthened his leadership, responsibility, and service to others.

“Scouting taught me a lot about leadership and perseverance,” he shared. “Those lessons have helped me build my business and work with clients and their dogs.”

One of Aidan’s favorite memories from his time at Oasis was a weeklong tabletop combat game in Mr. David Springfield’s class.

“It was a fun experience that really stood out,” he said.

He also enjoyed his sophomore computer class, which challenged him to think critically and collaborate.

“That class felt like the most real-life example of working on projects in a job,” he recalled. “We had weekly objectives, and the teacher encouraged us to solve problems on our own. It really made me want to learn.”

When asked for advice to future students, Aidan offered thoughtful insights on communication and responsibility.

“If you want to use a resource or tool for a class and think it might be an issue, just ask your teacher first,” he advised. “Explain why and how you want to use it — they’ll probably support you if you’re honest.”

Aidan’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to his goals continue to drive him forward. His business, Mannered Mutts (www.mannered-mutts.com), reflects his passion for animals, leadership skills, and commitment to excellence.