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Oakwood City Schools proudly honored the Class of 2025 at commencement ceremonies on May 27 at UD Arena. One hundred and seventy students crossed the stage to accept their diplomas.

The Oakwood graduating class amassed an impressive list of accomplishments:

• 85 graduated summa cum laude
• 21 graduated magna cum laude
• 108 students graduated with an honors diploma
• 69 students were members of the National Honor Society. 
• 2 students were members of the French Honor Society
• 8 students were members of the Spanish Honor Society
• At least four students signed letters of intent to enter military service after graduation

Following graduation, many OHS seniors have opted to continue their education, with most selecting in-state institutions like Ohio State University, Ohio University, Miami University, University of Dayton, Sinclair Community College and the University of Cincinnati.

On Tuesday, May 6, voters approved Oakwood City Schools’ 4.74-mill bond issue, marking a significant investment in the future of the district’s educational facilities.

The bond will generate approximately $40 million, providing funding for Phase 2 of Oakwood’s master facilities plan, including renovations to Smith and Harman Schools and other work around the district. 

Board President John Wilson said he was grateful to Oakwood voters for their approval.

"This is a great day for Oakwood,” he said. “Over many years, the community has shown its consistent support for our schools and our students' futures. We’re deeply grateful and ready to get to work delivering on the promise of this bond."

Superintendent Neil Gupta also expressed gratitude for the community’s support.

“This is a tremendous moment for the families and students we serve,” Gupta said. “We are thankful to our community for recognizing the importance of maintaining our learning environments. This bond will allow us to address urgent facility needs to support high-quality instruction for years to come.”

Dollars from the bond issue are earmarked for several critical updates to both schools, including HVAC and roofing upgrades, modernization of electrical systems, masonry repair, ceiling repair, lighting upgrades and other improvements. Read more about Oakwood's Master Facilities Plan.

Next steps will involve finalizing design plans, securing project partners and beginning work in a phased approach to minimize disruption to students and staff to the extent possible. The district will provide regular updates to the community as planning and construction progress.

Oakwood Schools is wishing a very happy retirement to 11 long-term educators and staff members. From elementary to high school, from math to administration, these professionals have had a lasting impact students, staff, and the Oakwood community. Join us in wishing these team members all the best in their next chapter!

Tammy Parker joined the Oakwood Schools staff in 1995 as part of the Harman staff. Tammy shared her many talents as a master teacher. She has a way of knowing how to reach every child.

Since 1998, Jay Lane has been a steady presence, quiet brilliance and unwavering passion for students and math making him a grounding force and inspiration for those around him to become better educators. Oakwood High School, especially the legendary third floor, won’t be the same without Mr. Lane.

Joyce Dunham is looking forward to retirement after being a member of Oakwood Schools for 27 years! She has been an organized and fun teacher while always remaining mindful of her students’ development.

Although operating behind the scenes, Linda Fortener has been impacting Oakwood Schools for 25 years. She has consistently helped coordinate substitutes for openings across the district and has certainly been one of the reasons all of Oakwood Schools run smoothly.

Mary Haucke-Davis has inspired the next generation of French students in Oakwood since 2004. There have been countless “above and beyond” examples of her teaching that students, families, and colleagues alike have shared testimony of. Bon voyage, Madame, and we look forward to hearing about your future travels.

Kathy Kash's passion for teaching, her amazing dedication to her students, and her constant support for those around her have made a lasting impact on all of us! Kathy has been a member of the Oakwood Schools staff since 2005.

Since 2005, Crystal Melchor has dedicated herself to meeting students’ diverse educational needs - as an advocate, collaborator, and inspiring educator. Her impact continues to shape lives and learning. You will be missed at Oakwood High School.

Cathie Newburg has been a consistent source of support at the Board of Education office since 2005. She has always been eager to help staff, on board new employees, and otherwise assist in any way possible. Cathie has plans to spend more time by the lake and enjoy gardening in her retirement.

For the past 20 years, Pam Morrow has advocated, collaborated, taught, and otherwise provided for students’ varied educational needs as an Intervention Specialist at Oakwood Junior High. She has truly helped students build their skills and future opportunities. She will be missed at OJH!

Although only with Oakwood as Lange Principal and Special Education Supervisor for three years, Suzanne Batten has made an impact focusing on education that emphasizes the whole child. She has strengthened community relationships by bringing in several community members and offering students opportunities to discover ideas, hobbies and occupations that they may not have encountered. Her creativity and kindness will be missed!

Kimbe Lange's warmth, wisdom, and unwavering dedication have left a lasting impact on our district since 2011. “Kimbe brought a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to ensuring every student felt seen, heard, and valued,” shared Assistant Superintendent Allyson Couch. "Her leadership in curriculum helped shape our schools and instructional practices, while her welcoming spirit and ability to form deep, meaningful connections with teachers across the district made her a trusted colleague and friend."