Bighorn Bulletin

Senior Spotlight: Emily Dunkin

As she prepares to graduate as a member of Oasis Academy’s Class of 2027, senior Emily Dunkin is looking ahead to a career helping others. After graduation in May, Dunkin plans to attend the University of Nevada, Reno, where she will begin the pre-nursing program with the goal of earning her nursing degree and eventually working as a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse.

Dunkin started at Oasis Academy in kindergarten, and throughout her years at Oasis, Dunkin has made the most of opportunities in the classroom, on the athletic field, and through extracurricular activities. One of her favorite memories came through her involvement in FFA.

“One of my many favorite memories at Oasis is my first time attending FFA state,” she said. “It was amazing to feel part of something so big, and to experience it with some of my best friends made it all that much better.”

FFA was an important part of her high school experience, as she participated all four years. Among her accomplishments, she placed second in horse judging at the state level.

Athletics also played a significant role in her time at Oasis. Dunkin served as a goalie for the Oasis lacrosse team throughout all four years of high school. Her dedication on the field was recognized with an All-Academic Award, as well as an honorable mention for the goalie position from the High Sierra Lacrosse League.

In the classroom, one teacher and course stood out among the many experiences she had at Oasis. Mr. David Springfield’s history class was her favorite.

“He made learning a fun experience, with projects that encouraged enthusiasm and camaraderie and would help me make close friends fast,” she said.

Dunkin is grateful to the people who helped shape her experience. She expressed appreciation for her family and friends, who provided wisdom and encouragement throughout high school. She also recognized Counselor Mr. Andy Lenon for his support and leadership.

“He always supported us and pushed our class to be the best version of ourselves, emotionally, scholastically, and physically,” she said.

Looking toward the future, Dunkin has one piece of advice for future students.

“My advice for future students is to face the scholastic difficulty with rigor from the start and enjoy the rare type of community that Oasis has provided,” she said.

Senior Sunrise Marks the Beginning of a Memorable Year

The Class of 2027 kicked off its senior year with a special tradition — Senior Sunrise. Seniors gathered on the airport lawn to celebrate the beginning of their final year and enjoy a morning filled with friendship, laughter, and school spirit.

Senior Sunrise gave students an opportunity to take a break from the excitement and busyness of the school year and simply enjoy being together. From sharing breakfast to taking photos and creating memories with classmates, the morning was a meaningful way to begin a year that will be filled with many lasts, milestones, and celebrations.

For the seniors, the event served as a reminder that their final year of high school is officially underway. While graduation may still seem far away, Senior Sunrise marked the beginning of a year they will likely remember for years to come.  Photos below: Oasis Academy seniors Danielle Fenton and Taylor Zupancic celebrate Senior Sunrise.

First Graders and Second Graders Dive Into Reading

First and second graders are already proving that they are eager to get to reading.

As students practice “Read to Self,” they are doing much more than simply turning the pages of a book. Independent reading gives students the opportunity to build reading stamina, strengthen fluency, expand their vocabulary, and improve their comprehension. It also encourages students to become more confident and independent learners as they practice skills at their own pace.

Students are discovering that there are countless books waiting to be explored. As they choose books that interest them, they are developing their own reading preferences while learning that reading can be both meaningful and fun.

The quiet time spent reading independently also helps students develop focus and concentration. With each book they explore, students are building important skills that will support them across every subject area.

“Reading to self is a wonderful opportunity for students to discover their own interests, build a love of reading, and grow into confident, voracious readers,” said Trish Gertsma, first-grade teacher.

The response from students was positive.

“The students were proud of themselves, expressing how they know that it helps their brains grow and become better readers,” Gertsma said.