Academic News: August 2009

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CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 37TH GRADUATED CLASS OF OAK CREEK RANCH SCHOOL!

On Saturday, May 16th, we celebrated the 37th Graduating Class of Oak Creek Ranch School. On Saturday, May 16th, more than two hundred parents, family and friends gathered together to celebrate the accomplishments of our 25 graduates. Mr. David Wick, Jr, Headmaster and Mrs. Nadine O’Brien, Principal , welcomed the Seniors and their families, thanking all the OCRS faculty, administration and staff for their efforts in guiding these graduates to a successful conclusion of their high school years. Mr. George Ireland, Athletic Director gave the ‘Advice to Seniors’ address, describing both their individual and team accomplishments as well as the sportsmanship they demonstrated throughout the year. All of the graduates participated in at least one team sport. He urged them to remember the lessons they learned on the field and continue to pursue excellence in every area of their lives. Mr. Jim Graves, the newly appointed Dean of Residential Life attended his first OCRS graduation. He congratulated the students on their personal accomplishments and acknowledged the hard work and commitment of his Residential Staff in helping them attain this important goal.

OTHER OCRS GRADUATES SHARED THEIR PERSONAL STORIES

Helen A. and Lexi P. shared their personal struggles, moments of transformation, and gratitude to their families, faculty and OCRS staff for enabling them to achieve their dreams.

Helen A.: “ … It’s hard to leave this campus for the final time but I know that I will take what I learned here and have it forever. I wouldn’t trade one second of my time here for anything in the world…”

Lexi P.   “…When faced with a setback, work with the consequences. Good things can come out of setbacks and challenges. Learn from your mistake.   Don’t let the past dictate who you are, but let it be a part of who you become…”

Sami D. expressed her congratulations in the form of a poem: (Excerpt from Sami’s Poem)

   “To some, high school is as easy as done
       But to us it was a struggle
         Look at what we’ve become

      I wish for us all happiness and success
      Where ever life takes you
      Just aspire to do your best.”

AN EXCERPT FROM SPEECH BY OUR 2009 SALUTATORIAN, GABBY I.

Salutatorian Gabby I., expressed her gratitude for the support and encouragement of the OCRS staff and her parents.

“…I want to thank Anna, Joe, Rick, Robert and Lynn for always helping me when I was sad… or needed a pat on the back. I want to thank my lovely parents for sending me here. I learned to be independent and responsible here. I also learned to spread my wings and got the chance to meet new people from different places. Thank you for everything you have done for me. I will miss you all!..”

AN EXCERPT FROM SPEECH BY OUR 2009 VALEDICTORIAN LOGAN H.

Valedictorian, Logan H. gave fellow classmates an inspirational message to follow their hearts and help others to do the same.

“….There is a line by an author named Joseph Campbell that I’ve kept close to me ever since I first heard it my Freshman year. He said, “Follow your Bliss.”

I believe it can be a strange and difficult road following that bliss. I can say that by doing so, I’ve had some good and bad times the entire way, all of which I cherish as parts of my life. If you follow your bliss and make sure you help people find theirs when they need it, then there’s nothing you can be doing wrong.

So Oak Creek graduating class of 2009, follow your bliss, touch others along the way, have some fun with it, and be proud of what you’ve accomplished…”

FRIENDS AND FAMILY GATHERED FOR GRADUATION BRUNCH FOLLOWING CEREMONY

The celebration was followed by an elegant brunch, prepared by Gerda Shea and staff that included Prime Rib, Chicken Kiev, and an array of side dishes and desserts. Guest dined outside, enjoying a perfect creek side with plenty of shade and sun.

Thanks again to everyone who helped our graduates reach this all-important milestone!