School’s out for the summer, and for Grade 8 classes, the final bell marked more than just the start of holidays. It signalled the beginning of an exciting new chapter as they look ahead to high school in the fall. Last week, the Oakville School community came together for a farewell BBQ, honouring the students who are heading to high school this fall. Approximately 150 students, faculty, and family members gathered to recognize the students’ achievements and share in their send-off.
Principal Mark Sokolowski said the event was a success, thanks in large part to the students themselves, who took on the role of emcees and kept the program running smoothly. A warm meal, organized and prepared by parent volunteers, and a heartfelt slideshow capped off the evening, where each graduate received their certificate from Oakville School.
“It was a great evening and a nice send-off for the kids,” Sokolowski says. “They did a fantastic job.”
Reflecting on the school year, Sokolowski shares that it felt like it flew by.
“It goes faster every year,” he explains with a smile. “It was a good year with a lot of growth in our building and a lot of positivity."
One highlight was in May, when the school hosted a week-long residency with Garfield Gini-Newman, an associate professor from the University of Toronto known internationally for his work with educators. His time at OVS offered meaningful learning experiences for both staff and students. A main focus of the year was also on treaty education, as part of their ongoing efforts to honour Indigenous perspectives and deepen understanding of Canada's shared history.
“We’re always trying to improve our practices here. It results in better learning opportunities for the teachers and the kids," he continues.
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As students look toward high school, Sokolowski offered some heartfelt advice.
“Dream big, and don’t settle for good when you can reach for great. Follow your passions, and if the path doesn’t exist, create your own. Be good people, work hard, and things will always work themselves out.”
Though farewells are never easy, he believes it's time for this year’s graduates to take the next step.
“Our grade 8 class was exceptional; a great group of kids. I've been teaching middle years for around 28 years now, and I say the same thing every June: they’ve outgrown our school. It’s time to move on to a bigger space where they can keep growing,” he says.
Though he acknowledges the transition can feel daunting, it is also necessary.
"It's impossible to get lost in Oakville School, and if you get lost, you'll get found real fast," he jokes. "The students are leaving a school of about 165 and heading to a school of roughly 1100 kids. It's a big change, but it's good to be out of your comfort zone. A little safe discomfort is a good thing. That's how we grow."
Sokolowski says he often hears glowing remarks about Oakville graduates from staff at Portage Collegiate Institute (PCI), which he sees as a testament to the students and the school community.
"We often get told they're well prepared, respectful, and polite. We're doing some good things here by getting them prepared for the next phase of their lives. As educators, that's what we strive for."
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