June 4, 2025 • 20 mins
OHS Seniors are finishing up their final week of classes and preparing for the commencement ceremony - the culminating experience that marks the end of their time in the OSD and the beginning of new adventures to come. Today we are taking with the three students who will be addressing their class during the graduation ceremony about their experiences, what’s next, and get a sneak peak into the important messages they have for the Class of 2025.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
SPEAKER1:
OHS seniors are finishing up their final week of classes and preparing for the
commencement ceremony, (00:05):
undefined
the culminating experience that marks the end of their time in the OSD and the beginning of new adventures to come.
Today, we are taking some time to talk with three students who will be addressing their class during the graduation ceremony about their experiences,
(00:27):
what's next, and maybe even get a sneak peek into the important messages they have for the class of 2025.
SPEAKER2: Welcome to this episode of Inside the OSD podcast, where it's all about the kids. (00:37):
undefined
Here is your guest host, former Oregon Middle School principal and current Director of Student Services,
Doctor Shannon Anderson.
SPEAKER1: Welcome to Inside the OSD. I'm Doctor Shannon Anderson, director of student services, (00:52):
undefined
and I'm honored to be this week's guest host of Inside the OSD.
I am here today with three students who will be addressing their class at the upcoming graduation ceremony,
and I had the fortune of being the middle school principal of these students a number of years ago.
(01:17):
We know what a busy time of year this is for you and we appreciate your time today.
Let's start off by having each of you introduce yourself.
SPEAKER3: Uh, hi. My name is Morgan Bohrer. Um, I've been at Oregon since fourth grade. (01:28):
undefined
In fourth grade, I went to Prairie View Elementary School.
Uh, during my time here, I have done, um, an African drumming ensemble, and I've been an all star cheerleader.
SPEAKER4: I'm Liam Holtzen. Um, I've been here in the OSD since fourth grade. (01:45):
undefined
I went to Brooklyn. Um, yeah, I played soccer with the high school.
I did orchestra, you know, through to my freshman year and--Yeah, last year.
SPEAKER5: I'm Hadley Stand . I went to Netherwood Knoll Elementary School, and I've been here since kindergarten. (02:04):
undefined
Um, I play lacrosse and golf and in many extracurriculars inside of OSD and in the community.
SPEAKER1: Awesome. Well, it is your very last week of school. (02:18):
undefined
Last week of high school. Um. And the last week for you of students in the Oregon School District.
How would you describe how you're feeling right now?
SPEAKER4: I'm--I'm ready for it to be over. I, I had a lot of fun here. (02:36):
undefined
I mean, the people, the teachers, the, you know, my peers are great.
Um, but, you know, we've been in the same building for four years now.
I'm ready for whatever's next, you know?
SPEAKER5: Yeah, I agree. I'm--I've always, like, looked toward college as, like, the next goal. (02:52):
undefined
Um, so I'm super excited for that next chapter in my life, but definitely like,
a bittersweet moment and like, kind of like at random moments.
I'm just feeling like sad or like, this is like really it.
SPEAKER3: I'm so nostalgic. (03:11):
undefined
SPEAKER5: Like so nostalgic. (03:13):
undefined
SPEAKER3: So much of that in me. And I'm really excited for the next step. (03:14):
undefined
But it's also like kind of sad closing such a big chapter, you know?
SPEAKER4: Yeah. And I think we're ending this last week off right. (03:22):
undefined
Yeah, yeah. With our senior skip day.
SPEAKER5: Senior pranks! (03:27):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Senior (03:28):
undefined
SPEAKER5: pranks. Yes. Yes. It's definitely a good, good ending. (03:28):
undefined
Yeah. With lots of fun.
SPEAKER1: Yeah. So you all started out sharing a lot of different ways that you've been involved in high school the last four years. (03:33):
undefined
And I can just tell from your comments that it is, as you said, bittersweet, like lots of great things.
Excited for what's to come. Um, but when you reflect on your time in the Oregon School District,
what are some of the memorable experiences that, like, really stand out to you?
(03:54):
Like those things that you're going to take with you when you leave this place?
SPEAKER5: I think something that really stands out to me is like different school projects throughout the different schools. (03:59):
undefined
Like I remember back in RCI when we did like the wax museum where we like dressed up as a person or like we did a country fair sort
of thing. And our parents came in and went through it.
(04:21):
And even in high school for finals like AP Econ, when I had to do like a rap parody where I used like econ terms in a song that's
like relevant today and in AP Lit now with like doing a brunch or dinner sort of final where we dress up as a
character in a book we've read, and create a script and bring a piece of like food or something addition,
(04:48):
um, and kind of perform that little skit.
I think OSD has a really unique way of involving projects and different hands on learning that I know a lot of other school
districts don't have, and I think that's really cool and unique that I'll definitely take with me for the rest of my life.
SPEAKER3: I was actually going to say something similar, kind of along the lines of like all the like, extracurricular clubs and (05:08):
undefined
activities and events we have going on, like at the school, like student council puts on so many fun events and like the
candy canes around Christmas time and the kisses for seniors.
And that stuff has been really fun to like, get people to bond, but also to like raise funds and stuff like that has been
really, really fun.
SPEAKER4: Yeah, I, I definitely agree with what Hadley had to say. (05:29):
undefined
And you know what you had to say? I think for me, something that sticks out is,
you know, the big projects that we did, you know, all the way since fourth grade till now.
I mean, I can remember I think it was seventh grade, we in science class, I made like another rap parody,
(05:50):
and I made this whole post-it board of a plant cell, and I changed the words to,
I think the song's "Ice Ice Baby."
SPEAKER5: Yes! (05:58):
undefined
SPEAKER4: It was "plant cells, baby." (05:59):
undefined
SPEAKER5: Yeah. Yeah. (06:02):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Love it. I still have the video and it's--it's great looking back on it and everything. (06:05):
undefined
Um, but yeah, then I mean, the extracurriculars.
I know sports have been a big thing for me.
Homecoming. Yeah. I mean.
SPEAKER5: We just have, like, a lot of unique opportunities and experiences that are, like, (06:17):
undefined
really easy to dive into as a student. Like, you're encouraged to do them.
And I think that's really cool.
SPEAKER4: Yeah. And I think same goes--I have some buddies that go to different school districts and they say, (06:28):
undefined
you know, like their homecoming. They have, you know, maybe 300 people at a school about the same size as Oregon.
And I think that's just something that's really great about, you know, Oregon is that a lot of people participate and it's a very close knit
community.
SPEAKER3: And yes, all of our events are very extravagant, like prom is a big deal and homecoming is a big deal. (06:49):
undefined
And our bright Christmas breaks with dress up days.
SPEAKER5: Our school spirit is very high. (06:57):
undefined
SPEAKER3: We're very good at school spirit. (06:59):
undefined
SPEAKER5: Yes. (07:01):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Yeah. (07:01):
undefined
SPEAKER1: So I love hearing about all these memories that you have formed here and what really stands out is super positive experiences. (07:02):
undefined
I want to shift now to to thinking about learning.
And when you reflect on your time as a student in OSD, what are some of the nuggets of learning that you think have been really
impactful that are going to help you be successful um, to where you go next?
(07:26):
What stands out?
SPEAKER4: I'm sorry. (07:29):
undefined
SPEAKER3: Go ahead. I can (07:30):
undefined
SPEAKER5: go. Yeah, we're just gonna start. (07:32):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Yeah. (07:35):
undefined
SPEAKER3: Um, I would say, like, mindset going into, like, freshman year was like, "what am I going to be? (07:36):
undefined
Who's going to be my friends? Like, how is everything going to be different?" But just kind of like letting it happen and not like forcing you to be friends
with someone or like, forcing the, like, fun and just like letting it happen, which I think has been a huge thing senior
(07:56):
year, too. Not forcing like school events or like trying to make sure I have the perfect homecoming,
just kind of letting the fun happen and it makes it a lot more enjoyable and stress free.
SPEAKER4: Yeah. (08:08):
undefined
SPEAKER5: You can (08:09):
undefined
SPEAKER3: go. (08:09):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Um, yeah, I absolutely agree. I mean, I think, you know, having a--I have a very close friend group. (08:10):
undefined
I mean, we've been hanging out with each other since almost fourth grade or fifth grade.
Sixth grade. And I mean, as far as learning goes, um, I think the teachers here are great.
(08:34):
They're very personable. And, you know, it's not scary to go talk to them at all.
They're not like professors where it's, you know, a lecture and then you're on your own.
Mhm. Um, they're very willing to help out and, and I mean the courses here, there's just so
SPEAKER5: many (08:49):
undefined
SPEAKER4: courses. Yeah. You can kind of really go wherever you want and kind of like what you said. (08:50):
undefined
You don't--like what Morgan said, you don't have to pick a certain thing freshman year.
You know what I mean? I know my freshman year I took a tech ed class.
I took a business class. I, you know, I was in orchestra.
I just tried everything out and figured out what I like.
SPEAKER3: Yeah, it's encouraged to try new things and dip your feet in the water and try everything before you figure out something you might enjoy. (09:10):
undefined
SPEAKER4: And I'm still doing that senior year, so. (09:17):
undefined
SPEAKER5: I would say my little nugget of learning is probably like adapting to change, because there's definitely been a lot of (09:21):
undefined
things over, like my four years in high school and in general, like K through 12 that have been thrown my way,
where I'm not necessarily thrilled with the idea at first or, you know, impacted my schedule differently than I originally planned or whatever
(09:48):
it may be. And learning to adapt to that change, I think, is super important.
And to learn that early is like a very important life skill that will take you far.
So I think for me, adapting to change has been like huge life skill and something that I know,
like a lot of other people, could benefit from, too.
SPEAKER3: We learned a lot of that in middle school through Covid that we started early with adapting to change. (10:09):
undefined
SPEAKER5: Yeah. Yeah. For sure. (10:14):
undefined
SPEAKER1: What I think is really exciting is I listen to each of you is I hear sort of the that change or that metamorphosis that has happened during your, (10:16):
undefined
your time here. And you're able to see that as you, as you transition on to what's next.
So speaking of what's next, let's move on to those graduation speeches.
Um, so I know Mr. Pliner has a process in which he invites members of the senior class to apply to be one of the graduation speakers.
(10:45):
Why was it important to you to be part of that process?
SPEAKER5: I can kind of start. I think for me, it was important to kind of share what I've learned and things and experiences I've gone through and (10:50):
undefined
hopefully inspire the class and the overall audience, um, and really hopefully uplift everybody to make a
difference in this large change we're about to come to.
SPEAKER3: Yeah, I have always been a very nostalgic person, and I feel like it's really important that we reflect on our time here and we (11:13):
undefined
don't just move on to the next step without remembering our past.
Right. And like our teachers, that helped us to get here.
Like we wouldn't be here without them, right? And so I really I really wanted to share that with everyone and give them space and the opportunity to be able to
(11:34):
think about their time, specific things that happened.
And just like, thank everyone around them.
SPEAKER4: Yeah, my--my reason's a little more selfish than that, I guess. (11:40):
undefined
SPEAKER6: I love the honesty. (11:45):
undefined
SPEAKER5: That's why you're the funny speech. (11:47):
undefined
SPEAKER6: Yeah, right. Yeah. (11:49):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Yeah, hopefully. Yeah. (11:50):
undefined
SPEAKER3: Definitely. (11:52):
undefined
SPEAKER5: Yeah. (11:53):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Um, but I wanted to end, you know, high school year with a bang. (11:53):
undefined
And, I mean, I loved my time in high school and, you know, the other schools at Oregon,
and, you know, I guess what better way to do that than to address your entire class and hopefully make them laugh a little bit.
True.
SPEAKER6: Yeah. Great. Well, I definitely will. (12:11):
undefined
SPEAKER1: I'll be there on graduation day and I'm looking forward to hearing your messages. (12:13):
undefined
I kind of have a general idea of what I might hear from each of you.
I'm looking forward to it. So I know that you might be sharing some advice or insights or inspiration on Sunday.
Um, but looking back, what advice would you have for freshmen, sophomores and juniors who are continuing their journey at OHS?
(12:37):
Any words of wisdom that you would like to share from your own experiences?
SPEAKER4: I, I definitely think a big one, especially for me, would be don't take things too seriously, (12:41):
undefined
you know? Yeah, I think--I think a lot of stress in high school and middle school comes from,
you know, "oh, I've got this huge Spanish test coming up" and, and this sounds,
(13:01):
sounds like, you know, the typical senior with
SPEAKER6: Senioritis, right. (13:05):
undefined
SPEAKER4: But looking back, I mean, I got, you know, I got good grades and I wasn't, you know, (13:08):
undefined
too stressed. I know my sisters, they stress a lot and and sometimes it's beneficial,
you know, they, they, you know, work their butt off and study and everything.
And they've gotten good grades as well. But I definitely think looking back, the moments I remember aren't,
(13:30):
you know, the big Spanish test that I had to study for.
It was--it was always, you know, the cool project or, you know, walking in during in the hallway during passing time with friends or,
you know, um, you know, moments like that.
SPEAKER3: I would say something similar, like, "don't take things for granted" because like the memories that I have from freshman year and I thought I was so like (13:45):
undefined
little and tiny and worthless, but like--and I was because I was a freshman.
SPEAKER6: But of course, like thinking about that, it just it's like (13:58):
undefined
SPEAKER3: "Oh my goodness, that was so fun!" And like sometimes you do need to let go a little bit and not care so much about like the big test or the big final. (14:01):
undefined
Study, but it's not the end of the world.
It's just high school. So kind of like to let loose and let things change.
SPEAKER4: And I kind of want to go back on that. It's not okay to like skip class. (14:18):
undefined
SPEAKER6: Right, right, right. (14:23):
undefined
SPEAKER5: My mom always says, like, "if you're nervous, it means you care," right? (14:25):
undefined
And I think it's good to be nervous. And it's good to get out of your comfort zone and make sure you study and make sure you get good grades,
because those matter, too. But it's also important to find a good balance and be able to make those memories with your friends,
(14:46):
or with your sports teams or clubs or-- don't choose school over sports.
SPEAKER3: Like, if you're debating on whether you'll have time for a sport, just take it and it'll probably be one of the best. (14:50):
undefined
SPEAKER4: As I say, especially with high school, I feel like the time management that. (14:57):
undefined
SPEAKER5: Very important to learn. You'll learn especially in college, like if you don't really learn it in high school, (15:01):
undefined
it's going to be a really hard time to jump into college when everything's kind of self-led,
and you have to figure out when you're going to do your homework, when you're going to study for that exam. Um,
definitely good to learn that.
SPEAKER3: And definitely one (15:20):
undefined
SPEAKER5: of the (15:21):
undefined
SPEAKER3: biggest jumps from like eighth grade to freshman year when you actually have like finals and you actually have homework that they don't just like--It's not (15:21):
undefined
just like a nightly homework. It's like you actually have to study and like.
SPEAKER5: Or you have it over like a two week span. (15:31):
undefined
SPEAKER6: And (15:33):
undefined
SPEAKER3: you have to learn that you actually have to do it, not the night before it's due. (15:33):
undefined
SPEAKER6: Right. (15:36):
undefined
SPEAKER5: I think, like my overall advice for freshmen through juniors is to ask questions. (15:37):
undefined
I've always been, like, encouraged from my parents to ask questions, and I think it's one of like the bravest things you can do is whether it's
asking a teacher for help or a friend for advice, or a parent for help with your pathway.
(16:04):
Whatever you're going to do in life, I think it's important to ask questions because that's the only way you're going to broaden your knowledge and take in
different viewpoints. It doesn't
SPEAKER3: make you (16:14):
undefined
SPEAKER5: less. Right! (16:14):
undefined
SPEAKER6: To (16:15):
undefined
SPEAKER3: have questions, it actually makes you a lot stronger, because a lot of people aren't willing to ask questions. (16:15):
undefined
SPEAKER5: And it allows you to grow as a person for sure. (16:19):
undefined
SPEAKER1: Well, fantastic advice. Thank you for sharing that. (16:25):
undefined
SPEAKER6: Seriously. (16:28):
undefined
SPEAKER1: Um, so the last question is what is next for you? (16:30):
undefined
What are you most excited about as you move into your next chapter?
SPEAKER7: I'll start that one off. (16:39):
undefined
SPEAKER6: Yeah, sure, I got it. (16:41):
undefined
SPEAKER3: I'm actually really excited for a fresh start with new people. (16:43):
undefined
It's nice to just, like, not have any stigma around anyone and be able to be 100% your authentic self,
which I'm very excited for. Like new location, new scenery around me.
Like I'll be in the bluffs in Winona State and I can't wait for the nature around me.
(17:05):
And just like everyone is new and everyone's fresh and there's like no previous anything,
no arguments with people, no things that are holding you back from being yourself.
So I'm very excited for that part.
SPEAKER7: Yeah. (17:19):
undefined
SPEAKER4: I--so I'm going to UW Platteville next year and I, I'm fortunate enough I'm going to be on the soccer team there. (17:20):
undefined
I'll be playing. So I've already got
SPEAKER6: like a-- (17:31):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Like a built in friend group. (17:31):
undefined
SPEAKER6: Yes. (17:32):
undefined
SPEAKER4: And you know, with Platteville being in Wisconsin and pretty close to Oregon, I already know a bunch of my buddies that are going there. (17:34):
undefined
So I guess my reasons are a little different than Morgan's, but--but, um.
No, I'm. I mean, I'm looking forward to it.
I think it'll be a lot of work. You know, there's a lot of responsibility that comes with,
(17:56):
you know, going to college and that taking that next step.
Um, but then again, a lot more fun and freedom as well.
So I'm looking forward to it for sure.
SPEAKER5: Well, I'm taking it far. My path (18:06):
undefined
SPEAKER6: is far -- (18:08):
undefined
SPEAKER5: North Carolina at UNC Chapel Hill, and I'm very excited for that. (18:10):
undefined
It's definitely a big jump. Um, kind of like Morgan though.
I'm super excited for new people, new location, new atmosphere, and I'm excited to grow as a person and learn about
(18:30):
different people's different experiences and perspectives.
And just like, jump in to the real world, if that makes sense.
Me too. So yeah.
SPEAKER1: Oh, wow. Um, so exciting to hear about what you have planned next. (18:40):
undefined
And just I hope everyone heard it in your voices, but your faces just lit up
SPEAKER6: as you were telling us about what's next. (18:50):
undefined
SPEAKER1: I love (18:52):
undefined
SPEAKER6: that! (18:52):
undefined
SPEAKER1: Um, so thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and your ideas with us today. (18:54):
undefined
On behalf of the entire district, um, I want you to know how proud we are of you and your classmates.
We'll be cheering from you back here in Oregon as you move forward, and are very excited to hear your speeches,
but also to hear about your amazing adventures yet to come.
(19:18):
The class of 2025 commencement Ceremony will be held this Sunday, June 8th at 1 p.m.
in the Oregon High School Main Gym. The event will be streamed live courtesy of OCA media.
Congratulations, class of 2025!
SPEAKER8: Remember that you can find links to all episodes of Inside the OSD and submit topic ideas on our website at (19:35):
undefined
OregonSD.org/Podcast. You can find this podcast anywhere you can find podcasts.
Make sure to subscribe if you're listening on one of these apps to get notifications on the most recent episodes.
(19:56):
We'll see you next time on Inside the OSD where it's all about the kids.
undefined
the culminating experience that marks the end of their time in the OSD and the beginning of new adventures to come.
Today, we are taking some time to talk with three students who will be addressing their class during the graduation ceremony about their experiences,
(00:27):
what's next, and maybe even get a sneak peek into the important messages they have for the class of 2025.
SPEAKER2: Welcome to this episode of Inside the OSD podcast, where it's all about the kids. (00:37):
undefined
Here is your guest host, former Oregon Middle School principal and current Director of Student Services,
Doctor Shannon Anderson.
SPEAKER1: Welcome to Inside the OSD. I'm Doctor Shannon Anderson, director of student services, (00:52):
undefined
and I'm honored to be this week's guest host of Inside the OSD.
I am here today with three students who will be addressing their class at the upcoming graduation ceremony,
and I had the fortune of being the middle school principal of these students a number of years ago.
(01:17):
We know what a busy time of year this is for you and we appreciate your time today.
Let's start off by having each of you introduce yourself.
SPEAKER3: Uh, hi. My name is Morgan Bohrer. Um, I've been at Oregon since fourth grade. (01:28):
undefined
In fourth grade, I went to Prairie View Elementary School.
Uh, during my time here, I have done, um, an African drumming ensemble, and I've been an all star cheerleader.
SPEAKER4: I'm Liam Holtzen. Um, I've been here in the OSD since fourth grade. (01:45):
undefined
I went to Brooklyn. Um, yeah, I played soccer with the high school.
I did orchestra, you know, through to my freshman year and--Yeah, last year.
SPEAKER5: I'm Hadley Stand . I went to Netherwood Knoll Elementary School, and I've been here since kindergarten. (02:04):
undefined
Um, I play lacrosse and golf and in many extracurriculars inside of OSD and in the community.
SPEAKER1: Awesome. Well, it is your very last week of school. (02:18):
undefined
Last week of high school. Um. And the last week for you of students in the Oregon School District.
How would you describe how you're feeling right now?
SPEAKER4: I'm--I'm ready for it to be over. I, I had a lot of fun here. (02:36):
undefined
I mean, the people, the teachers, the, you know, my peers are great.
Um, but, you know, we've been in the same building for four years now.
I'm ready for whatever's next, you know?
SPEAKER5: Yeah, I agree. I'm--I've always, like, looked toward college as, like, the next goal. (02:52):
undefined
Um, so I'm super excited for that next chapter in my life, but definitely like,
a bittersweet moment and like, kind of like at random moments.
I'm just feeling like sad or like, this is like really it.
SPEAKER3: I'm so nostalgic. (03:11):
undefined
SPEAKER5: Like so nostalgic. (03:13):
undefined
SPEAKER3: So much of that in me. And I'm really excited for the next step. (03:14):
undefined
But it's also like kind of sad closing such a big chapter, you know?
SPEAKER4: Yeah. And I think we're ending this last week off right. (03:22):
undefined
Yeah, yeah. With our senior skip day.
SPEAKER5: Senior pranks! (03:27):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Senior (03:28):
undefined
SPEAKER5: pranks. Yes. Yes. It's definitely a good, good ending. (03:28):
undefined
Yeah. With lots of fun.
SPEAKER1: Yeah. So you all started out sharing a lot of different ways that you've been involved in high school the last four years. (03:33):
undefined
And I can just tell from your comments that it is, as you said, bittersweet, like lots of great things.
Excited for what's to come. Um, but when you reflect on your time in the Oregon School District,
what are some of the memorable experiences that, like, really stand out to you?
(03:54):
Like those things that you're going to take with you when you leave this place?
SPEAKER5: I think something that really stands out to me is like different school projects throughout the different schools. (03:59):
undefined
Like I remember back in RCI when we did like the wax museum where we like dressed up as a person or like we did a country fair sort
of thing. And our parents came in and went through it.
(04:21):
And even in high school for finals like AP Econ, when I had to do like a rap parody where I used like econ terms in a song that's
like relevant today and in AP Lit now with like doing a brunch or dinner sort of final where we dress up as a
character in a book we've read, and create a script and bring a piece of like food or something addition,
(04:48):
um, and kind of perform that little skit.
I think OSD has a really unique way of involving projects and different hands on learning that I know a lot of other school
districts don't have, and I think that's really cool and unique that I'll definitely take with me for the rest of my life.
SPEAKER3: I was actually going to say something similar, kind of along the lines of like all the like, extracurricular clubs and (05:08):
undefined
activities and events we have going on, like at the school, like student council puts on so many fun events and like the
candy canes around Christmas time and the kisses for seniors.
And that stuff has been really fun to like, get people to bond, but also to like raise funds and stuff like that has been
really, really fun.
SPEAKER4: Yeah, I, I definitely agree with what Hadley had to say. (05:29):
undefined
And you know what you had to say? I think for me, something that sticks out is,
you know, the big projects that we did, you know, all the way since fourth grade till now.
I mean, I can remember I think it was seventh grade, we in science class, I made like another rap parody,
(05:50):
and I made this whole post-it board of a plant cell, and I changed the words to,
I think the song's "Ice Ice Baby."
SPEAKER5: Yes! (05:58):
undefined
SPEAKER4: It was "plant cells, baby." (05:59):
undefined
SPEAKER5: Yeah. Yeah. (06:02):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Love it. I still have the video and it's--it's great looking back on it and everything. (06:05):
undefined
Um, but yeah, then I mean, the extracurriculars.
I know sports have been a big thing for me.
Homecoming. Yeah. I mean.
SPEAKER5: We just have, like, a lot of unique opportunities and experiences that are, like, (06:17):
undefined
really easy to dive into as a student. Like, you're encouraged to do them.
And I think that's really cool.
SPEAKER4: Yeah. And I think same goes--I have some buddies that go to different school districts and they say, (06:28):
undefined
you know, like their homecoming. They have, you know, maybe 300 people at a school about the same size as Oregon.
And I think that's just something that's really great about, you know, Oregon is that a lot of people participate and it's a very close knit
community.
SPEAKER3: And yes, all of our events are very extravagant, like prom is a big deal and homecoming is a big deal. (06:49):
undefined
And our bright Christmas breaks with dress up days.
SPEAKER5: Our school spirit is very high. (06:57):
undefined
SPEAKER3: We're very good at school spirit. (06:59):
undefined
SPEAKER5: Yes. (07:01):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Yeah. (07:01):
undefined
SPEAKER1: So I love hearing about all these memories that you have formed here and what really stands out is super positive experiences. (07:02):
undefined
I want to shift now to to thinking about learning.
And when you reflect on your time as a student in OSD, what are some of the nuggets of learning that you think have been really
impactful that are going to help you be successful um, to where you go next?
(07:26):
What stands out?
SPEAKER4: I'm sorry. (07:29):
undefined
SPEAKER3: Go ahead. I can (07:30):
undefined
SPEAKER5: go. Yeah, we're just gonna start. (07:32):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Yeah. (07:35):
undefined
SPEAKER3: Um, I would say, like, mindset going into, like, freshman year was like, "what am I going to be? (07:36):
undefined
Who's going to be my friends? Like, how is everything going to be different?" But just kind of like letting it happen and not like forcing you to be friends
with someone or like, forcing the, like, fun and just like letting it happen, which I think has been a huge thing senior
(07:56):
year, too. Not forcing like school events or like trying to make sure I have the perfect homecoming,
just kind of letting the fun happen and it makes it a lot more enjoyable and stress free.
SPEAKER4: Yeah. (08:08):
undefined
SPEAKER5: You can (08:09):
undefined
SPEAKER3: go. (08:09):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Um, yeah, I absolutely agree. I mean, I think, you know, having a--I have a very close friend group. (08:10):
undefined
I mean, we've been hanging out with each other since almost fourth grade or fifth grade.
Sixth grade. And I mean, as far as learning goes, um, I think the teachers here are great.
(08:34):
They're very personable. And, you know, it's not scary to go talk to them at all.
They're not like professors where it's, you know, a lecture and then you're on your own.
Mhm. Um, they're very willing to help out and, and I mean the courses here, there's just so
SPEAKER5: many (08:49):
undefined
SPEAKER4: courses. Yeah. You can kind of really go wherever you want and kind of like what you said. (08:50):
undefined
You don't--like what Morgan said, you don't have to pick a certain thing freshman year.
You know what I mean? I know my freshman year I took a tech ed class.
I took a business class. I, you know, I was in orchestra.
I just tried everything out and figured out what I like.
SPEAKER3: Yeah, it's encouraged to try new things and dip your feet in the water and try everything before you figure out something you might enjoy. (09:10):
undefined
SPEAKER4: And I'm still doing that senior year, so. (09:17):
undefined
SPEAKER5: I would say my little nugget of learning is probably like adapting to change, because there's definitely been a lot of (09:21):
undefined
things over, like my four years in high school and in general, like K through 12 that have been thrown my way,
where I'm not necessarily thrilled with the idea at first or, you know, impacted my schedule differently than I originally planned or whatever
(09:48):
it may be. And learning to adapt to that change, I think, is super important.
And to learn that early is like a very important life skill that will take you far.
So I think for me, adapting to change has been like huge life skill and something that I know,
like a lot of other people, could benefit from, too.
SPEAKER3: We learned a lot of that in middle school through Covid that we started early with adapting to change. (10:09):
undefined
SPEAKER5: Yeah. Yeah. For sure. (10:14):
undefined
SPEAKER1: What I think is really exciting is I listen to each of you is I hear sort of the that change or that metamorphosis that has happened during your, (10:16):
undefined
your time here. And you're able to see that as you, as you transition on to what's next.
So speaking of what's next, let's move on to those graduation speeches.
Um, so I know Mr. Pliner has a process in which he invites members of the senior class to apply to be one of the graduation speakers.
(10:45):
Why was it important to you to be part of that process?
SPEAKER5: I can kind of start. I think for me, it was important to kind of share what I've learned and things and experiences I've gone through and (10:50):
undefined
hopefully inspire the class and the overall audience, um, and really hopefully uplift everybody to make a
difference in this large change we're about to come to.
SPEAKER3: Yeah, I have always been a very nostalgic person, and I feel like it's really important that we reflect on our time here and we (11:13):
undefined
don't just move on to the next step without remembering our past.
Right. And like our teachers, that helped us to get here.
Like we wouldn't be here without them, right? And so I really I really wanted to share that with everyone and give them space and the opportunity to be able to
(11:34):
think about their time, specific things that happened.
And just like, thank everyone around them.
SPEAKER4: Yeah, my--my reason's a little more selfish than that, I guess. (11:40):
undefined
SPEAKER6: I love the honesty. (11:45):
undefined
SPEAKER5: That's why you're the funny speech. (11:47):
undefined
SPEAKER6: Yeah, right. Yeah. (11:49):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Yeah, hopefully. Yeah. (11:50):
undefined
SPEAKER3: Definitely. (11:52):
undefined
SPEAKER5: Yeah. (11:53):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Um, but I wanted to end, you know, high school year with a bang. (11:53):
undefined
And, I mean, I loved my time in high school and, you know, the other schools at Oregon,
and, you know, I guess what better way to do that than to address your entire class and hopefully make them laugh a little bit.
True.
SPEAKER6: Yeah. Great. Well, I definitely will. (12:11):
undefined
SPEAKER1: I'll be there on graduation day and I'm looking forward to hearing your messages. (12:13):
undefined
I kind of have a general idea of what I might hear from each of you.
I'm looking forward to it. So I know that you might be sharing some advice or insights or inspiration on Sunday.
Um, but looking back, what advice would you have for freshmen, sophomores and juniors who are continuing their journey at OHS?
(12:37):
Any words of wisdom that you would like to share from your own experiences?
SPEAKER4: I, I definitely think a big one, especially for me, would be don't take things too seriously, (12:41):
undefined
you know? Yeah, I think--I think a lot of stress in high school and middle school comes from,
you know, "oh, I've got this huge Spanish test coming up" and, and this sounds,
(13:01):
sounds like, you know, the typical senior with
SPEAKER6: Senioritis, right. (13:05):
undefined
SPEAKER4: But looking back, I mean, I got, you know, I got good grades and I wasn't, you know, (13:08):
undefined
too stressed. I know my sisters, they stress a lot and and sometimes it's beneficial,
you know, they, they, you know, work their butt off and study and everything.
And they've gotten good grades as well. But I definitely think looking back, the moments I remember aren't,
(13:30):
you know, the big Spanish test that I had to study for.
It was--it was always, you know, the cool project or, you know, walking in during in the hallway during passing time with friends or,
you know, um, you know, moments like that.
SPEAKER3: I would say something similar, like, "don't take things for granted" because like the memories that I have from freshman year and I thought I was so like (13:45):
undefined
little and tiny and worthless, but like--and I was because I was a freshman.
SPEAKER6: But of course, like thinking about that, it just it's like (13:58):
undefined
SPEAKER3: "Oh my goodness, that was so fun!" And like sometimes you do need to let go a little bit and not care so much about like the big test or the big final. (14:01):
undefined
Study, but it's not the end of the world.
It's just high school. So kind of like to let loose and let things change.
SPEAKER4: And I kind of want to go back on that. It's not okay to like skip class. (14:18):
undefined
SPEAKER6: Right, right, right. (14:23):
undefined
SPEAKER5: My mom always says, like, "if you're nervous, it means you care," right? (14:25):
undefined
And I think it's good to be nervous. And it's good to get out of your comfort zone and make sure you study and make sure you get good grades,
because those matter, too. But it's also important to find a good balance and be able to make those memories with your friends,
(14:46):
or with your sports teams or clubs or-- don't choose school over sports.
SPEAKER3: Like, if you're debating on whether you'll have time for a sport, just take it and it'll probably be one of the best. (14:50):
undefined
SPEAKER4: As I say, especially with high school, I feel like the time management that. (14:57):
undefined
SPEAKER5: Very important to learn. You'll learn especially in college, like if you don't really learn it in high school, (15:01):
undefined
it's going to be a really hard time to jump into college when everything's kind of self-led,
and you have to figure out when you're going to do your homework, when you're going to study for that exam. Um,
definitely good to learn that.
SPEAKER3: And definitely one (15:20):
undefined
SPEAKER5: of the (15:21):
undefined
SPEAKER3: biggest jumps from like eighth grade to freshman year when you actually have like finals and you actually have homework that they don't just like--It's not (15:21):
undefined
just like a nightly homework. It's like you actually have to study and like.
SPEAKER5: Or you have it over like a two week span. (15:31):
undefined
SPEAKER6: And (15:33):
undefined
SPEAKER3: you have to learn that you actually have to do it, not the night before it's due. (15:33):
undefined
SPEAKER6: Right. (15:36):
undefined
SPEAKER5: I think, like my overall advice for freshmen through juniors is to ask questions. (15:37):
undefined
I've always been, like, encouraged from my parents to ask questions, and I think it's one of like the bravest things you can do is whether it's
asking a teacher for help or a friend for advice, or a parent for help with your pathway.
(16:04):
Whatever you're going to do in life, I think it's important to ask questions because that's the only way you're going to broaden your knowledge and take in
different viewpoints. It doesn't
SPEAKER3: make you (16:14):
undefined
SPEAKER5: less. Right! (16:14):
undefined
SPEAKER6: To (16:15):
undefined
SPEAKER3: have questions, it actually makes you a lot stronger, because a lot of people aren't willing to ask questions. (16:15):
undefined
SPEAKER5: And it allows you to grow as a person for sure. (16:19):
undefined
SPEAKER1: Well, fantastic advice. Thank you for sharing that. (16:25):
undefined
SPEAKER6: Seriously. (16:28):
undefined
SPEAKER1: Um, so the last question is what is next for you? (16:30):
undefined
What are you most excited about as you move into your next chapter?
SPEAKER7: I'll start that one off. (16:39):
undefined
SPEAKER6: Yeah, sure, I got it. (16:41):
undefined
SPEAKER3: I'm actually really excited for a fresh start with new people. (16:43):
undefined
It's nice to just, like, not have any stigma around anyone and be able to be 100% your authentic self,
which I'm very excited for. Like new location, new scenery around me.
Like I'll be in the bluffs in Winona State and I can't wait for the nature around me.
(17:05):
And just like everyone is new and everyone's fresh and there's like no previous anything,
no arguments with people, no things that are holding you back from being yourself.
So I'm very excited for that part.
SPEAKER7: Yeah. (17:19):
undefined
SPEAKER4: I--so I'm going to UW Platteville next year and I, I'm fortunate enough I'm going to be on the soccer team there. (17:20):
undefined
I'll be playing. So I've already got
SPEAKER6: like a-- (17:31):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Like a built in friend group. (17:31):
undefined
SPEAKER6: Yes. (17:32):
undefined
SPEAKER4: And you know, with Platteville being in Wisconsin and pretty close to Oregon, I already know a bunch of my buddies that are going there. (17:34):
undefined
So I guess my reasons are a little different than Morgan's, but--but, um.
No, I'm. I mean, I'm looking forward to it.
I think it'll be a lot of work. You know, there's a lot of responsibility that comes with,
(17:56):
you know, going to college and that taking that next step.
Um, but then again, a lot more fun and freedom as well.
So I'm looking forward to it for sure.
SPEAKER5: Well, I'm taking it far. My path (18:06):
undefined
SPEAKER6: is far -- (18:08):
undefined
SPEAKER5: North Carolina at UNC Chapel Hill, and I'm very excited for that. (18:10):
undefined
It's definitely a big jump. Um, kind of like Morgan though.
I'm super excited for new people, new location, new atmosphere, and I'm excited to grow as a person and learn about
(18:30):
different people's different experiences and perspectives.
And just like, jump in to the real world, if that makes sense.
Me too. So yeah.
SPEAKER1: Oh, wow. Um, so exciting to hear about what you have planned next. (18:40):
undefined
And just I hope everyone heard it in your voices, but your faces just lit up
SPEAKER6: as you were telling us about what's next. (18:50):
undefined
SPEAKER1: I love (18:52):
undefined
SPEAKER6: that! (18:52):
undefined
SPEAKER1: Um, so thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and your ideas with us today. (18:54):
undefined
On behalf of the entire district, um, I want you to know how proud we are of you and your classmates.
We'll be cheering from you back here in Oregon as you move forward, and are very excited to hear your speeches,
but also to hear about your amazing adventures yet to come.
(19:18):
The class of 2025 commencement Ceremony will be held this Sunday, June 8th at 1 p.m.
in the Oregon High School Main Gym. The event will be streamed live courtesy of OCA media.
Congratulations, class of 2025!
SPEAKER8: Remember that you can find links to all episodes of Inside the OSD and submit topic ideas on our website at (19:35):
undefined
OregonSD.org/Podcast. You can find this podcast anywhere you can find podcasts.
Make sure to subscribe if you're listening on one of these apps to get notifications on the most recent episodes.
(19:56):
We'll see you next time on Inside the OSD where it's all about the kids.
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Cold Case Files: Miami
Joyce Sapp, 76; Bryan Herrera, 16; and Laurance Webb, 32—three Miami residents whose lives were stolen in brutal, unsolved homicides. Cold Case Files: Miami follows award‑winning radio host and City of Miami Police reserve officer Enrique Santos as he partners with the department’s Cold Case Homicide Unit, determined family members, and the advocates who spend their lives fighting for justice for the victims who can no longer fight for themselves.