OASIS Alternative High School Graduates Five

Jared Grantham, Noah Sheppard, and Breena Benthin with OASIS Teacher Marta Branch

Breena Benthin, Jared Grantham and Noah Sheppard were honored at a graduation ceremony today in Emmanuel Episcopal Parish Hall.

The hall was nearly full, and children and dogs romped outdoors as Orcas Island School Superintendent Barbara Kline, OASIS teachers, School Board staff and Funhouse Director Pete Moe presented the diplomas.

In addition to Benthin, Grantham and Shepphard, Camillia Loyd and Samual Prado have earned OASIS high school diplomas at this time.

Orcas Alternative Student-Initiated Studies (OASIS) was formed as a high school about four years ago. At today’s ceremony, Superintendent Kline acknowledged the efforts of teacher Marta Branch, “who was right in the trenches from the beginning.” This year, OASIS high school staff included Kathy Collister, Corey Wiscomb, Jill Sherman, Laurie Mayhew, and Patricia Goffney. They “provided the opportunities to experience and pursue education on their own terms,” said Kline, who also thanked the School Board. Members Tony Ghazel and Chris Sutton attended the graduation event.

Marta Branch  said the OASIS high school program allows the students to plot their own courses, and help shape their own process.

“I’m so excited to see where they will take this achievement… You guys are going to be great,”  Branch said.

Pete Moe has employed Benthin and Grantham at The Funhouse. His address to the graduates included the advice: “Pay close attention to your heart and do what you really want to do… you will always be rewarded by your work.”