Oasis Academy students are spreading warmth and positivity this holiday season through the Light Up the Room Project. This schoolwide initiative, launched in December 2023, aims to foster a culture of kindness and connection among students. Colorful paper Christmas lights, adorned with inspiring messages, now line the hallways, creating an atmosphere that encourages self-reflection and appreciation.
As part of this initiative, school counselors invited students to complete the prompt, “You light up the room because…” during guidance lessons. This exercise allowed students to express their own strengths, promoting self-awareness and confidence. Following this, students shared their paper lights with classmates, who contributed words that highlighted how each individual positively impacts their peers. The resulting messages included descriptors such as honest, smart, funny, creative, and loyal, transforming the school environment into one filled with encouragement and support.
The Light Up the Room Project exemplifies Oasis Academy’s commitment to nurturing a respectful and supportive school culture. The project serves as a meaningful reminder, particularly during the holiday season, that simple acts of kindness and positive words can significantly influence the well-being of the school community. By turning hallways into spaces that radiate encouragement, students are embodying the spirit of the season, demonstrating that kindness becomes even more powerful when shared.
Students Enhance Financial Literacy Through Immersive Program
In addition to fostering kindness, Oasis Academy students recently participated in the Bite of Reality financial literacy program, organized in conjunction with Financial Horizons Credit Union. This hands-on initiative provided students with a realistic experience in budgeting and money management, essential skills for adulthood.
During the simulation, students were assigned various roles, complete with careers, incomes, and family situations, which placed them in authentic financial scenarios. They faced everyday financial decisions relating to housing, food, transportation, childcare, and other critical expenses. The program aimed to teach students about balancing their wants and needs and the implications these choices have on their overall financial health.
Adding depth to the simulation, students encountered unexpected “life events” that tested their financial adaptability. Some events were fortunate, such as receiving a bonus or financial assistance, while others presented challenges like unexpected medical bills or car repairs. These scenarios required students to adjust their budgets in real time, encouraging critical thinking about financial priorities.
The Bite of Reality program provided a valuable opportunity for students to grasp the importance of budgeting and responsible decision-making. By engaging in real-life financial situations, they developed practical skills that will serve them well into adulthood. The school expresses gratitude to Financial Horizons Credit Union for their collaboration in delivering this impactful educational experience, preparing students for the financial responsibilities they will encounter in the future.
Angela Viera, the Public Information Officer at Oasis Academy, emphasized the significance of these programs in enhancing both emotional and financial literacy among students, ensuring they are well-rounded individuals ready to navigate the complexities of modern life.
