Bighorn Bulletin

Senior Spotlight: Eliza Dervo

The path to graduation has been more than just academic for senior Eliza Dervo; it’s been transformational. Graduating with both her high school diploma and an Associate of Science degree from Western Nevada College, Dervo leaves Oasis with an impressive academic record and a deep appreciation for learning — something she admits wasn’t always the case.

“When I started at Oasis, I had very low self-esteem, I hated school, and I didn’t believe I was capable of accomplishing much of anything,” she said.

That perspective quickly shifted thanks to the supportive environment she found.

“This school is full of teachers who care about their students, not just their paycheck,” she said. “Patience, kindness, and sincerity are carried in their voices and in their classrooms. It was exactly what I needed to flourish. I went from getting almost all Fs to getting almost all As.”

One of her favorite memories captures the simple joys of her time at Oasis.

“My favorite memory at Oasis is getting to do schoolwork outside,” Dervo said.

Her passion for understanding the world led her to her favorite class, an anthropology course at Western Nevada College.

“I loved the anthropology course I took at WNC because it contained topics of early human evolution and early human culture. I’ve always believed modern-day life is anything but natural, so I really enjoyed getting to examine the culture and natural lifestyles of early humans,” she explained.

The class also made her further examine humanity.

“Since taking this class I have devised a question: Are we really living unnaturally if invention is what comes natural to us? Would it be better for our minds and bodies to live as we did in early human history, or are we designed to live in a world generations of human thought built for us?” she said.

Outside the classroom, she immersed herself in hands-on learning opportunities. She attended Nevada Youth Range Camp in both 2024 and 2025, studying the state’s diverse ecosystems. Her dedication earned her the Trail Boss award and an impressive 104% score on the plant identification test.

Dervo also participated in INBRE, conducting biomedical research on cyclooxygenase in M2a macrophages and presenting her team’s findings at a conference in Las Vegas.

Dervo especially wanted to express her gratitude to one Oasis Academy staff member.

“With my whole heart, I would like to thank Counselor Andy Lenon for what he has done for me and the entire school body,” she said. “If it wasn’t for Mr. Lenon I would not be the student I am today.”

She credits his patience and understanding for helping her find confidence in an academic setting.

“Because of Mr. Lenon, I have the drive and confidence to chase dreams of societal and environmental improvement,” she said.

As she prepares to graduate, she leaves future students with thoughtful advice.

“Learning to love learning and appreciate knowledge is a process, but it is a process worth enduring. I urge you to view every event, every simple interaction you have throughout your day, as an opportunity to learn,” she said.

After graduation, Dervo plans to attend Humboldt Cal Poly Tech, where she will major in environmental science and management with a concentration in energy and climate. She is also considering double-majoring in biochemistry.

Senior Spotlight: Neveah Routt

Senior Neveah Routt has been attending Oasis Academy since first grade. The senior has many memories from her long tenure at Oasis, but one stands out.

“Going to Disneyland with the High School Student Council is my favorite memory,” she said.

Routt describes her overall time at Oasis as nice.

Throughout her time at school, she found enjoyment in hands-on learning, especially in ceramics.

“Ceramics was my favorite class because it was fun,” Routt said.

She did not have a particular teacher in mind to thank, but was appreciative of all who helped her along the way.

“I’d like to say thank you to all of my teachers I’ve ever had,” she said.

After graduation, she plans to serve her country by joining the Army National Guard, a path that reflects both commitment and courage.

As she prepares for the future, she offers simple but meaningful advice to younger students.

“Take advantage of all opportunities given to you,” she said.

Oasis Academy Students Show Support on Purple Up Day

Students and staff at Oasis Academy came together in a sea of purple on April 16 to celebrate Purple Up Day, a nationwide effort to honor military-connected students and their families. The day served as a meaningful reminder of the unique challenges and sacrifices made by those who serve their families.

Held each April, Purple Up Day is part of the Month of the Military Child, a time dedicated to recognizing the strength, resilience, and contributions of children in military families. Throughout the month, communities across the country take time to acknowledge the important role these students play as they navigate frequent moves, family separations, and the uncertainties of military life.

At Oasis Academy, classrooms, hallways, and common areas were filled with shades of purple as students and staff proudly participated by wearing the symbolic color. Purple represents all branches of the military, combining the colors of each service into one unified show of support.

In addition to wearing purple, Oasis Academy recognized the military-connected students. These students were presented with small tokens of appreciation, including yo-yos and bracelets, to acknowledge their resilience and the sacrifices their families make.

“Being a Purple Star School near Naval Air Station Fallon isn’t just a title; it shapes the day-to-day culture of the school in a very real way because our school serves a large number of students who are stationed at the base,” said Dane Nott, K-12 school leader.

“As a Purple Star School, we can actively appreciate the sacrifice of our local military families by offering unwavering support, build awareness of military life realities, and provide a welcoming community for their children,” Nott said.  Photo below: Shannon Gracia, Teagan Lienhardt, Charlotte Coombs, Spencer Hampton, Lily Laue, and Colton Franks.