Bighorn Bulletin

Kindergarteners Explore Comparing and Contrasting Through Gingerbread Fun

Kindergarten students recently put their thinking skills to work as they learned to compare and contrast in a fun and engaging way. Using familiar and beloved gingerbread stories, students examined similarities and differences between various versions of The Gingerbread Man, discussing characters, settings, and how each story unfolded.

After reading and talking about the stories together, students took the lesson a step further by applying their skills to a creative and tasty topic: which part of the gingerbread man they would eat first. Students shared their choice of either the head, arms, or legs for the first bite. They then compared them with their classmates, noting how some preferences were the same while others were different.

This hands-on activity helped students strengthen early literacy and critical thinking skills while encouraging discussion, listening, and respectful sharing of ideas. By connecting academic concepts to stories and real-life choices, kindergarteners showed their understanding of comparing and contrasting in a memorable and enjoyable way.

The gingerbread-themed lesson was a sweet example of how learning can be both educational and fun in the kindergarten classroom.

Senior Spotlight: AlexZandar Sheldon-Davis

As he prepares to graduate, Oasis Academy senior AlexZandar Sheldon-Davis reflects on a journey that began all the way back in first grade.

“I have experienced the school grow since I joined all the way back in first grade, when each grade only had one class,” he said.

A favorite memory dates to his elementary school years.

“One of my favorite memories from my time at Oasis Academy was in fourth grade. Because I was advanced in math, I had the opportunity to learn concepts far beyond what is usually taught at that level,” he said.

Sheldon-Davis is grateful for the educators who supported and challenged him along the way.

“I would like to thank Mr. Andy Lenon for being a big supporter of me throughout my entire time at Oasis Academy, and Ms. Holly Neal, my fourth-grade teacher, who showed me my true potential in math,” he said.

His favorite class, however, was Social Studies with Mr. David Springfield.

“Mr. Springfield’s lessons were always interactive and fun,” Sheldon-Davis said.

Outside the classroom, Sheldon-Davis remained deeply involved in both school and community activities. He consistently showed academic excellence, earning placement on the Western Nevada College Dean’s List for multiple semesters and achieving membership in the National Honor Society. He has volunteered more than 1,000 hours with various organizations throughout high school, and one of his proudest commitments is his ongoing dedication to flag ceremonies and flag retirements in his community.

“I have been on the varsity basketball team all four years, varsity baseball for one year, and I am an Eagle Scout with Boy Scouts of America Troop 1776,” he said.

In addition to earning his high school diploma, Sheldon-Davis will graduate with an Associate of Business degree from Western Nevada College. He is scheduled to enroll at the University of Nevada, Reno, having received admission to Honors College. He plans to earn both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting, with the goal of working for the FBI as a forensic accountant.

When offering advice to future Oasis Academy students, Sheldon-Davis encouraged them to focus on what truly matters.

“Don’t worry too much about knowing everything; just find what you’re passionate about, because passion is what gets you places, not George Washington’s birthday,” he closed.

Gemini, Inc. in Fallon Donates $5,000 to Support Oasis Academy Technology Programs

Oasis Academy is honored to have received a generous $5,000 donation from Gemini, Inc. in Fallon, in support of the school’s technology programs. This contribution will help enhance technology education opportunities for students and strengthen classroom resources across the campus.

The donation reflects Gemini’s commitment to investing in local education and supporting students as they develop essential skills for the future. Funds will be used to support technology-based learning, providing students with access to tools and experiences that prepare them for college, careers, and an increasingly digital world.

School leaders expressed sincere gratitude for the continued support of local businesses. 

“Gemini’s contribution helps provide continued access to student learning programs, online lessons, digital resources, and online simulation programs that enrich our classroom instruction,” said Dane Nott, K-12 School Leader. “These high-interest tools meet students’ diverse learning needs and support multiple learning modalities, helping them engage more deeply in their education.”

Technology education plays a vital role in today’s classrooms, helping students build critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy skills. Technology is integrated into instruction at all grade levels, ensuring students are prepared to succeed in an ever-evolving workforce.

Oasis Academy extends its appreciation to Gemini in Fallon for their investment in education and for supporting the success of local students. Community partnerships like this highlight the power of local support and their positive impact on schools and students alike.