Senior Spotlight: Natalia Martinez de la Cruz
Natalia Martinez de la Cruz’s journey at Oasis Academy began in third grade and has been shaped by friendship, growth, and meaningful connections. She describes her senior class as a uniquely supportive and close-knit group, saying, “From the time I entered Oasis to now, my entire class has felt like one big group of friends...a very loving, goofy, caring group of kids.”
Looking back, it’s the simple moments with classmates and teachers that stand out. Among her favorite memories are the freshman-year lunches spent laughing and sharing food around the picnic tables with friends.
Natalia also cherished her classes with Mr. David Springfield, calling him an “amazing teacher/mentor” who always brought laughter and support, even as she moved on to college coursework.
She credits many mentors at Oasis for their positive influence, including Mrs. Berenice de Leon, Mrs. Meg Antoniono, Mrs. Shayna Byrd, and Mr. Jose Ramirez. Mrs. de Leon, her aunt, helped her discover a love for reading. Mrs. Antoniono and Mrs. Byrd provided comfort and a welcoming classroom whenever needed. Mr. Ramirez, whose Spanish class was always a safe and welcoming space, was a source of both humor and understanding throughout her school years.
Natalia shared that Mr. Ramirez always opened his classroom to her, making her feel understood and supported, even when she was not officially in his class.
Outside the classroom, Natalia participated in volleyball her freshman year, served on Student Council for two years, and dedicated herself to Ballet Folklórico throughout her school years. Her instructor, Elizabeth Medina Palacios, helped her grow through dance and instilled life lessons.
Natalia is deeply grateful to her parents for their unwavering support and involvement—attending every event and providing encouragement throughout her education. She said, “A mis padres - los quiero mucho y les agradezco todo lo que han hecho por mí. Gracias por enseñarme que todo es posible con Dios a mi lado.” She translated, “To my parents - I love them very much, and I thank them for everything they have done for me. Thank you for teaching me that anything is possible with God by my side.”
After graduating in May with both her high school diploma and an Associate of Arts from Western Nevada College, Natalia plans to move to Reno with her older brother. There, she will attend the University of Nevada, Reno, in Fall 2026 to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Primary Education.
Natalia offers advice to future students: “First, don't let school consume you. Enjoy your time with your friends, family, activities, and sports, because once you graduate, you'll either be thankful for the memories or regret not participating more.”
“Second, throughout school, there will be drama and opinions about you. It's important to learn that you decide whether those opinions shape who you are, how you think, what you do, and who you become.”
Save the Date: Exciting School Events Ahead!
Families are encouraged to mark their calendars for a series of engaging school events coming up this spring. Students will kick things off with the National History Day Showcase on February 5, followed by K-6 Math Night on February 10, an evening of hands-on learning and problem-solving fun. Literacy takes center stage at Literacy Night on March 3, and budding scientists will shine during the Science Fair on March 11. Community fun continues with Movie Night on April 9, and the season wraps up with Future Fest on April 17, a dinner to raise money for Oasis Academy STEAM programs.
Please remember to check the school website regularly for event details, times, and any updates, or contact the school with any questions at 775-423-5437.
Winterfest Week Celebrated at High School
The high school student council wrapped up the fall semester on a sweet note by hosting Winterfest, a weeklong celebration that brought school spirit, creativity, and Candyland-themed fun to the halls and dance.
Throughout the week, students participated in themed spirit days. Festivities kicked off with Crazy Sweater Day, followed by Tutu Tuesday, then Winter Wonderland Wednesday, and finished with Candyland Character Day, where students dressed as their favorite characters inspired by the classic board game. The week concluded with the annual Winterfest Dance.
"Spirit days and weeks are a great way to promote school spirit and community because everyone can participate,” said Eric Grimes, Academic Advisor and Student Counselor Advisor. “This year's Winterfest dance was great, and the students really enjoyed the theme. We had incredible support from students and parents, which is great for the student community. We especially want to thank Elizabeth Medina for helping the Candyland theme come to life even more with her decorations."
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