When I joined the Oak Farm Montessori School community, I came in as a newcomer, both professionally and personally. As the Communications and Events Coordinator, I was excited to contribute to a school with such a meaningful mission
As a parent, I was simply grateful that my son would be attending middle school here What I didn’t expect was how quickly this place would feel like home or how profoundly I would be moved by the students I met, especially the graduating seniors
In my role as editor of this senior publication, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down one-on-one with each member of the Class of 2025. I asked questions about their capstone projects, their inspirations, their challenges, their hopes. What unfolded in those conversations was nothing short of extraordinary.
These students spoke with passion, clarity, and purpose Their curiosity was deep Their intellect was sharp But it was their authenticity, their willingness to be vulnerable, driven, and reflective, that left a lasting impression on me
It became abundantly clear that these seniors are not only the product of their own ambition, but of a school culture that nurtures the whole individual. From the thoughtful design of the curriculum to the quiet encouragement of teachers who truly see their students, Oak Farm Montessori is an environment where young people are empowered to become the best versions of themselves It is a place where a question is just as important as an answer, and where exploration is valued as much as achievement
What impressed me most was not just the caliber of the capstone work, though it was outstanding, but the deep personal growth each student articulated through their process This is learning that matters This is education that shapes leaders, creators, changemakers
As Oak Farm Montessori continues to grow and evolve, expanding opportunities to meet the interests and passions of its students, I am confident that this year’s graduating class has set a high standard, one that future students will strive toward. Their example is not only inspiring; it’s foundational
To the seniors: thank you for welcoming me into your world and allowing me to help tell your stories It has been an honor to walk alongside you, even briefly, during this remarkable chapter of your lives I leave this project filled with admiration and a renewed sense of purpose in the work we do here as a community
Seniors Bathroom Photo
TheBridge Builder
If you’ve ever walked the halls of Oak Farm
Montessori High School, chances are you’ve
crossed paths with the infectious energy, easy laughter, and intentional kindness of Sami Al
Jabari, which has made him not just a recognizable face, but a deeply respected and cherished member of the community.
Reflecting on his time at OFMS, Sami doesn 't hesitate what he’ll remember most is the people
"The community I’ve built with everyone over the years that’s what sticks with me, " he says. But
Sami wasn’t just a participant in that community he was a builder. Describing himself as a “bridge, ” he became a unifying presence among classmates, intentionally bringing people together and making sure everyone felt included
His journey at Oak Farm Montessori was one of transformation. From a freshman with long hair and a quiet start, Sami grew into a confident leader and connector. “I don’t know if there was necessarily a void to fill, ” he says, “but I saw where something was needed, and I stepped up It’s all about consistency ” That dependable presence at events, in class, or on school trips was felt by many
A proud athlete, Sami was part of Oak Farm Falcon’s early sports programs, giving his all regardless of wins or losses “We didn’t win championships, ” he jokes, “but we built something great and we had a blast doing it ” Whether on the soccer field, basketball court, or in the stands, his love for sports was always tied to camaraderie and shared experience.
Academically, science and the Innovation Lab captured the honor student’s curiosity. From handson streaming research to dissecting a fetal pig with a visiting surgeon, his learning was immersive. In the Innovation Lab, Sami explored voiceover work, multimedia projects, and even began creating content for real clients His voice was so polished that one listener assumed it was AI. “Nope,” came the proud correction “That’s Sami ”
When it comes to mentorship, Sami speaks with gratitude for Jonathan Agler, the High School administrator and mentor “He cared deeply in and out of the classroom and that inspired me,” Sami reflects
Outside the classroom, intercession trips and camping adventures pushed him out of his comfort zone and into moments of connection he’ll never forget. From sunrise on a beach in Barcelona to laughter around spicy red chili enchiladas in the lunchroom, Sami made memories out of every moment “Even the uncomfortable ones became hilarious and unforgettable when shared with the right people,” he says
Looking ahead, Sami has big dreams He plans to pursue pre-med studies at a small private college, with hopes of blending his love of sports, medicine, and media into a future filled with purpose. He’s also building a social media platform to reach a wider audience and share messages that reflect his values: inclusion, optimism, and community
So how does he want to be remembered? “As someone who was involved A friend Someone who made things better, who brought people together ” And if he could say one thing to his future self? “Keep going.”
Sami Al Jabari is the kind of person you remember not just for his talent and charm, but for how he makes others feel: seen, valued, and part of something bigger Oak Farm Montessori won’t be the same without him, but it’s certainly better because of him.
In a world that often celebrates volume over value, Isaiah
Baughman known to his friends and teachers simply as
Ben is a striking exception Grounded, introspective, and wise beyond his years, Ben embodies a quiet power that has made an unmistakable impact on the Oak Farm
Montessori community He is not loud in presence, but in meaning Not hurried, but deeply intentional With a big heart, sharp insight, and a maturity cultivated through both challenge and growth, Ben leaves behind a legacy rooted in kindness, integrity, and quiet leadership
When asked what he will remember most about Oak Farm
Montessori, Ben introspectively replied, “Probably my teachers ” It’s a simple answer, but it speaks volumes For
Ben, relationships matter more than accomplishments, and connection runs deeper than curriculum
Throughout high school, he’s grown significantly particularly in his ability to navigate social spaces despite struggling with anxiety in earlier years That growth wasn’t accidental Ben shares that it came from being seen, supported, and challenged in the right ways at Oak Farm
Montessori
The Montessori approach was a catalyst “I was a really bad student in that public school life, ” Ben admits But OFMS' s methodology didn’t just help him become a better student it spurred his passion for learning “It allowed me to value my work and bridge it into something that I deeply care about ”
When it comes to defining moments, Ben doesn’t cite a singular assignment or award Instead, he speaks of “family time” with High School Administrator, Jonathan Agler circle discussions focused on community wellbeing and emotional growth “They were like sit-down conversations with your dad in the kitchen, ” Ben recalls, “after a really rough moment ”
These moments of real talk about discouragement, belonging, and how to build a better community shaped him The same goes for birthday affirmations, where peers shared heartfelt reflections on how each student impacted their lives “I remember trying not to cry on my birthday, ” Ben says “I’ve never felt so much care for me in a room before ” U n f o l d i n g G r e a t n e s s
Academically, Ben’s passions found fertile ground A memoir assignment in English his sophomore year gave him a chance to tell a hard but transparent story “It was the time I could be honest with my community, ” he says, adding that it sparked not just curiosity but healing.
Not all meaningful memories come from formal learning Some are born around campfires in West
Virginia or in crowded bathrooms with six friends learning how to shave for the first time. “We had one d like seven guys packed in as chaos, but it was such a
opes people remember about Ben jokes, “It’d be funny if bered me for my crazy board know better Ben will be or his thoughtful words, his capstone project He’ll be eeply he cared For his ability sform it into purpose For his rs and his unwavering belief than products
r and Son” by Yusuf / Cat ange, reflection, and passing tion to the next. It’s fitting.
students are seen, heard, and in rising, they help others do Oak Farm Mon
him back to himself
Perhaps what’s most remarkable about Ben is his desire to pay it forward Originally interested in entomology, he’s now planning to study education sparked by teachers who saw his natural ability to explain things and encouraged him to pursue it
His goal? To become the kind of teacher he needed when he was younger. “I want to bring the teachers I got here into other people’s lives, because I know how much of a positive impact they had ”
Ben hopes to return to Oak Farm Montessori one day not as a student, but as a guide for the next generation. There couldn’t be a more fitting full-circle moment.
Capstone
At Oak Farm Montessori High School, education is not just about acquiring knowledge it's about cultivating purpose, character, and a deep sense of self. Nowhere is this more evident than in the senior capstone project, a culminating academic experience that is as rigorous as it is transformative.
The senior capstone is a long-term, self-directed project that challenges each student to explore a subject they are deeply passionate about. Rooted in research, personal inquiry, and reflection, each capstone is a true synthesis of the Montessori approach—balancing intellectual exploration with real-world application. Through months of study, interviews, data collection, and analysis, our seniors craft a final product that not only demonstrates academic mastery but also personal growth
The result? A collection of bold, thought-provoking works that speak to the unique interests and voices of our graduating class
The Pinnacle of Passion and Purpose
This year’s capstones offered a powerful glimpse into the minds and hearts of our seniors. Topics ranged from the physiological and emotional impact of caffeine on adolescents, to a psychological deep-dive into how faith and stress intersect. One student explored the effectiveness of emotional well-being courses on high school students, while another examined the unexpected relationship between interior design and student productivity. From studying cownose rays in touch tanks to dissecting the most successful genres across social media, each project reflected a genuine curiosity and a drive to make sense of the world.
But beyond the pages of research and presentation slides lies something even more significant: growth Seniors emerge from the capstone experience with newfound confidence, sharper critical thinking skills, and a refined ability to express complex ideas both in writing and speech. They learn to manage time, wrestle with ambiguity, and persevere through challenges, all while staying true to their vision
We are deeply proud of the courage, creativity, and commitment our seniors have shown through their capstone work. These projects stand as a testament not only to their academic achievements but to their integrity, curiosity, and readiness to engage with the world beyond OFMS’s campus The capstone is more than just a graduation requirement it’s a celebration of everything our students have become and everything they are ready to become.
Some students leave a mark through their words, others through their work But there are a rare few whose impact is felt simply in the way they show up for their peers, their teachers, and their school community That is Devon Nichols Whether he was managing the Oak Leaf Café with an easy confidence, mentoring younger students with patience, or cracking a perfectly timed joke in the hallway, Devon has been a constant, kind presence, a thread woven into the very fabric of the school’s culture
But Devon’s journey through high school wasn’t always easy In fact, he’s the first to admit it “I did really bad freshman year,” he says with a laugh that’s equal parts honesty and humility “It took me a while to realize how important my work was I was the kind of student who thought, ‘Eh, I’ll be fine ’ But then I wasn’t At least, not at first ”
What makes Devon’s story remarkable isn’t that he struggled, many students do, it’s that he decided not to stay in that place He chose to evolve Bit by bit, year by year, Devon built himself into someone new: someone accountable, someone focused, someone proud of what he could accomplish
“My work ethic now? It’s completely different,” he says “Junior year, it finally clicked I realized I could either keep falling behind or I could get serious about my future ” And he did
What’s beautiful about Devon’s growth is that it wasn’t just for himself He turned around and began offering that same encouragement to others
“I mentor younger students now because I don’t want them to go through what I did,” he says “If I can help someone find their footing sooner, I’m going to do it ”
Perhaps one of the most visible examples of his leadership was Devon’s role at the Oak Leaf Café, where he wasn’t just another student helping out, he ran the show
“The café was like my thing,” he says, grinning “I got to organize everything, keep things running, make sure people had what they needed It gave me a real sense of responsibility ”
A known face in the café, not just because he handled orders, Devon made it a place of warmth and laughter, just like him.
“Even when he was tired or had a million things going on, Devon showed up with a smile,” one classmate shared. “You just felt better when he was around.”
I n s pi r a t i o n
Devon carries a lot of memories from his time at OFMS, some funny, some profound, all meaningful He talks fondly of the spontaneous Gulf Shores trip freshman year: a “school vacation” full of bonding, late-night laughs, and shared experiences
And then there's the unforgettable “bacon incident” a hilarious inside joke among students that Devon references with a mischievous glint in his eye "If you know, you know," he says, laughing “It’s legendary ”
But when you ask him what he wants to be remembered for, Devon doesn’t talk about jokes or projects or even his leadership
“I hope people remember my personality,” he says thoughtfully “I’ve tried to be upbeat, to help people, to be there I want people to think of me as someone who cared and who never gave up ”
If Devon’s high school experience had a soundtrack, it would be “Walking” by Denzel Curry The song is about persistence, about pushing forward no matter how hard life gets It’s a message Devon connects with deeply “There were times I messed up Times I procrastinated But I kept walking I kept going ”
As he looks to the future, Devon is taking a well-earned gap year before college He’s interested in digital art, animation, and game design, fields that blend creativity and technology, much like Devon himself And while he’s still figuring out the specifics, he knows he wants to keep learning, keep growing, and most importantly, keep helping others do the same “Whatever I do, I want to make a difference, even if it’s a small one,” he says
Devon Nichols leaves behind more than just memories He leaves behind a legacy of leadership, kindness, and perseverance He is a reminder that growth doesn’t always happen in giant leaps, it can look like late-night catch-ups on capstone projects, or stepping onto the basketball court senior year just to say, I did it
He is the embodiment of Oak Farm Montessori’s mission growing into a thoughtful, compassionate, driven human being
Faith,Friendship, andFinding Purpose
When Kingston Linthicum reflects on his time at Oak Farm Montessori School, one word rises to the surface: connection. “What I’ll remember most is the friendships I’ve built here,” he says. “How close I’ve gotten with my classmates and how much they’ve helped me grow mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.”
Kingston came to Oak Farm Montessori after spending his earlier academic years in public school The transition was transformative “Since freshman year, I’ve become more open to other people’s ideas and beliefs. I’ve learned to accept others more fully ” It’s a mindset shift that shaped both his identity and worldview
Perhaps Kingston’s proudest accomplishment in high school was his journey into the Catholic Church “When I started high school, I wasn’t religious at all,” he shares. But a friend, Gretchen Lowe, invited him to church, and something clicked “I just completed my OCIA classes and got confirmed. That’s something I’m really proud of ”
This spiritual growth led to his capstone project, where Kingston explored the relationship between faith-based practices and student stress levels He discovered that students who participated in youth services or church activities often experienced significant reductions in stress a finding that deepened his appreciation for the role of faith in people’s lives.
Oak Farm Montessori’s approach also gave Kingston the space to explore personal interests A standout experience for him was Anatomy and Physiology “We were doing dissections, and I thought I’d be grossed out,” he admits, laughing. “But it actually sparked something in me wanting to understand how everything in the body is connected ”
His love of science and service have combined into a clear career goal: to become a dentist Kingston plans to attend Grace College in Winona Lake to study predental. “I want to help people and give them a safe, non-judgmental space, with the income I earn, I want to give back to charities I don’t want to be greedy, I want to make my success count.”
Kingston also found deep value in extracurriculars, especially tennis. “People think sports are just sports, but it was so much more. Doug, our coach, helped us form real connections as a team We’re still talking about moments from the season ”
Like many Oak Farm students, Kingston credits the school’s structure, offering student independence and meaningful choice, as a core reason for his growth.
“Montessori gave me the basic subjects, yes, but also encouraged me to dig deeper into what I’m truly interested in.”
Kingston describes his high school journey in three words: chaotic, meaningful, worthy. If he could send a message to his future self, it would be this: “Never give up. Always follow the path laid out for you And don’t stress God saved you before, and He’ll do it again ”
As for a personal soundtrack to his high school experience? “Definitely Vienna by Billy Joel,” he says without hesitation
When asked what he wants to be remembered for, Kingston grins: “That I was funny ” Along with that, he’ll be remembered for so much more his heart, his faith, and his unwavering commitment to growth and kindness.
Lex's academic journey was just as transformational. While he enjoyed pushing himself in math having taken AP Calculus II his senior year it was Oak Farm Montessori’s ecoliteracy program that truly ignited his passion. “I took at least three classes focused on environmental topics,” he says. “That’s what helped me decide on environmental biology as my major.”
Lex’s commitment to the environment is more than academic. His capstone project and his future career plans reflect a deep desire to preserve and protect ecosystems, particularly aquatic ones “I hope to work in fisheries or wildlife biology, either with the DNR or in lake and pond management I want to create or maintain places where people can enjoy fishing and connect with nature ”
It’s not just science for Lex, it’s stewardship “There was a lesson where we calculated our personal environmental footprints Seeing how much waste we actually produce it was eye-opening ”
Transformation andGrowth
As the graduating class of Oak Farm Montessori School turns the page to a new chapter, one senior in particular stands out not for loud accolades or grand gestures, but for his steady presence, quiet strength, and deep passion for the natural world. Alexander Moser, who goes by Lex, embodies the spirit of what it means to grow not just academically, but personally and purposefully. His journey from a reserved freshman to a confident, mission-driven graduate is a reflection of both his inner resilience and the nurturing environment that helped shape him.
Lex entered Oak Farm Montessori from a small private school in Kendallville, unsure of what to expect and hesitant in social settings “I was really introverted,” he admits “I had a tough time even presenting in front of a teacher ” But over time, through the tight-knit community of his senior class, just nine students strong and the consistent emphasis on student voice, Lex began to blossom “I really opened up and got brought out of my shell,” he shares, crediting his growth to the friendships he formed and the independence Oak Farm Montessori nurtured
Now, he speaks with confidence and clarity, a testament to the environment that encouraged him to develop his voice “We do presentations for literally every class,” he laughs, “and now I’m not even scared to present my capstones anymore If my freshman self could see me now, he’d laugh in disbelief ”
When it comes to advice for younger students, Lex encourages exploration: “OFMS has a ton of opportunities Don’t pass them up Explore everything get to know what you like and don’t like ”
For Lex, one of the most defining aspects of OFMS was the community “Because it’s such a small school, I really got to know everyone personally,” he explains “I’m not great with just acquaintances I either want to be close to someone or keep to myself So the small size really worked for me ”
Friendship isn’t just a theme in Lex’s story, it’s a legacy Whether bonding on class trips like the Gulf Shores intersession or late nights after indoor soccer games at Applebee’s, Lex found connection and laughter in shared experiences. “Our sports teams became more like friend groups. We’d play, hang out, stay up too late it was just a tight community.”
He also speaks warmly of the faculty, particularly Doug, a teacher who showed resilience through adversity and kindness through leadership “Doug broke his foot and still came in to teach,” Lex recalls “He’s someone I try to be like dedicated, caring, and a great friend ”
A favorite Oak Farm Montessori memory? The infamous “spicy enchiladas” lunch incident: “No one believed the first person who said they were terrible, so we all took big bites. We were dying for the next 30 minutes!”
When asked to describe his high school experience in three words, Lex paused before saying: fun, friendship, and work,
and while “work” may seem mundane, for Lex it encapsulates the discipline, growth, and time management that have carried him through challenges like his capstone and that will serve him in college and beyond
As he looks ahead to Grace College and a future protecting the planet’s natural resources, Lex carries with him not only memories and skills, but a quiet determination to make a difference
His hope? “That people remember me as kind, funny, hardworking and a good friend.” And in truth, they already do.
In every graduating class, there are individuals who powerfully shape the heart of their community For Oak Farm Montessori, that person is Grayson Pettit.
Grayson, a member of the 2025 graduating class, leaves behind a legacy of thoughtfulness, warmth, and leadership. Known for his unwavering kindness, humility, and integrity, Grayson is the kind of student who leads by example, not for recognition, but simply because it’s the right thing to do
Reflecting on his time at Oak Farm Montessori, Grayson speaks with deep affection for the people who made the experience so meaningful. “The people I mean, the connections you forge here are just so different from any other community I’ve been in,” he said “My senior class became like my siblings I’m an only child, but they made me feel like I wasn’t ”
Kindness, Curiosity,and Connection
Grayson’s journey through OFMS has been one of growth and discovery Once a shy student, he grew into a mentor, role model, and educator for younger students through his work in the Science of WellBeing class and the Bike Shop program. “I never saw myself as a leader,” he shared, “but I’ve learned how much I love helping others It’s become the highlight of my week ”
His academic journey has been equally impressive. Grayson earned a Gold Key in the prestigious Scholastic Writing Awards, an international writing competition, for an essay on meditation a piece that took months to develop with care, feedback, and revisions In a humorous twist of fate, he was also the first OFMS student to both win a writing award and nearly fail a writing class simultaneously proof that even his challenges turned into triumphs, and always with a smile.
As he prepares to attend the College of Wooster, with aspirations toward physical therapy and a possible future in healthcare, Grayson carries with him the lessons, laughter, and love from his years at Oak Farm Montessori. He hopes to be remembered not just for who he is, but for how he made others feel: safe, heard, and cared for
“To be the reason someone believes in kind and compassionate souls,” Grayson said, quoting a line that captures his life philosophy “That’s what I want.”
Oak Farm Montessori is honored to have been a part of Grayson Pettit’s journey. His smile, legacy of empathy, thoughtfulness, and resilience will continue to ripple through the community for years to come
A quintessential Montessori student, Grayson thrived under the school’s model of student choice and independence He admits he experienced a learning curve while adjusting to the freedom, it ultimately helped him develop into a self-motivated, 4 0 student who’s now ready to take on college with confidence.
Beyond academics, Grayson’s passions have flourished in unexpected places like Oak Farm’s theater program. Initially cast in a supporting role, he was soon handed a lead part, diving in headfirst and discovering a love for performance and storytelling. “Theater got me out of my shell,” he said, crediting the experience for giving him the confidence to embrace the unknown
Whether he was acting on stage, playing guitar, helping younger students, or just sharing laughs with friends, Grayson was a steady, compassionate presence in the Oak Farm Montessori community His humor is sharp, his heart open, and his goals clear: to help others and spread kindness in a world that often desperately needs it
At Oak Farm Montessori, it’s not uncommon to encounter students who lead with conviction, who pursue their passions with focus and grace, but even in such a community, Jaxton Routsong stands out
An honor student, a talented musician, a dedicated entrepreneur, and a deeply admired peer and sibling, Jaxton embodies what it means to be a wellrounded graduate. He is both driven and humble, determined and respectful an individual whose success is matched only by his strong sense of community and character
Jaxton has attended Oak Farm Montessori since second grade Over the years, he’s experienced tremendous personal growth most notably in his
journey from follower to leader “It wasn 't
something I sought out at first, ” he admits “But as an upperclassman, it became clear that leadership was a responsibility I had to step into ” And step into it he did Whether in academics, extracurriculars, or day-to-day social dynamics, Jaxton has become someone younger students look up to and with good reason.
His leadership isn 't loud or self-serving. It’s steady, thoughtful, and infused with the values that OFMS holds dear: independence, connection, and authentic engagement
Jaxton credits the Montessori method for his strong academic and emotional foundation “The hands-on materials and self-paced learning taught me not just how to get the answer, but why it’s the answer, ” he reflects But beyond academics, it was the microeconomy lessons in middle school that sparked a deeper understanding of business and personal finance skills he now actively uses in his Capstone project and beyond.
In fact, it’s this very Capstone project that ignited Jaxton’s future career path. A natural entrepreneur, he builds professional websites for local businesses, helping them grow their presence and clientele. “I started with a hairstylist’s site, and it’s already brought her a lot of business, ” he says with quiet pride “I’ve loved every part of it the design, the marketing, the strategy ” This is more than just a school project It’s a passion and a calling
Driven by Passion, Grounded in Purpose:
Though known for his academic strength and business acumen, Jaxton is equally gifted musically With a unique partnership, he attended first-period band at Garrett High School every day, a commitment that required early mornings and unwavering discipline “It’s something I wouldn’t have had the chance to do here,” he says “But Oak Farm supported me in making it work I’m really grateful for that ” This dual identity as both a creative and a technical thinker sets Jaxton apart. More than just succeeding; he wants to make meaningful contributions to the world around him.
Ask Jaxton what he'll remember most about OFMS, and he doesn’t hesitate: the people “It’s a close-knit community
Everyone knows everyone It’s personal here,” he says From emotional learning lessons during “family time” to phone-free bonding on camping trips, it’s clear that connection is a cornerstone of his high school experience.
He speaks fondly of teachers who became mentors and friends Of Michael, who started teaching the same year Jaxton began high school. “We were rookies together,” he laughs. “We’ve built a real friendship.” Jaxton is also deeply inspired by Doug’s wisdom and Jon’s leadership, highlighting just how much he values learning from those around him
Jaxton has big plans and he’s not afraid to chase them This fall, he plans to attend Purdue University, following in his father’s footsteps by pursuing a degree in marketing. “My dad’s been a big influence,” Jaxton says “He owns a security company in Fort Wayne and uses AI every day to help run the business. I’ve learned a lot from him.”
His dream is to continue growing his web development business, eventually expanding into real estate and possibly launching new ventures He’s not driven by ego, but by purpose. “I want to help people access the tools they need whether it’s building a website, using AI effectively, or navigating the business world ” He hopes to be remembered as someone who “strived for big things,” someone who worked hard and kept pushing forward no matter the odds
When asked what message he’d write to his future self, Jaxton’s answer speaks volumes about his character: “Don’t forget the people who got you there. If everything works out or even if it doesn’t go back and thank them ” And if there were a soundtrack to his high school journey? He laughs, “Definitely Bruno Mars 24K Magic.” A fitting choice for someone who’s bold, polished, and ready to shine
From all of us at Oak Farm Montessori, congratulations to Jaxton Routsong. You’ve already made an impact, and we can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next
RThere are students whose legacies are written not in volume, but in depth who lead not with noise, but with grace Fiona Schoonover is one of those rare souls Soft-spoken, deeply thoughtful, and resilient beyond measure, she has left an indelible imprint on Oak Farm Montessori High School one built on quiet strength, sincerity, and steady transformation
Fiona joined OFMS in her sophomore year, transitioning from a homeschool environment to a brand-new community “That first year was rough,” she recalls with her signature honesty “I had poor time management, and I didn’t talk much to anyone at first.” But beneath that initial hesitation was a spark waiting to catch and in the supportive, student-centered world of Montessori education, it did.
With time, encouragement, and courage, Fiona stepped out of her comfort zone and into her voice She formed friendships, found belonging, and grew into a more confident, joyful version of herself Her journey is a testament to what happens when young people are trusted to grow at their own pace and gently challenged to rise
One of Fiona’s proudest achievements is her senior capstone project an experience she describes as both demanding and transformative “If you miss one step, it sets you back a lot,” she said. “You learn to keep moving forward.” The project tested her time management and discipline, and in the process, it shaped her sense of capability and resilience. It wasn’t just an academic exercise it was a rite of passage.
Outside of her studies, Fiona found joy and selfexpression in unexpected places She joined the OFMS choir and participated in the Self-Expression program an opportunity to sing, explore, and grow creatively “I’m not a great singer, but I love to sing,” she shared “Before Oak Farm, I never had those opportunities Getting to choose something I love and do it every week that was special ”
Bowling, too, became a surprising and meaningful part of her high school journey. It wasn’t about the game it was about showing up, stepping into something new, and finding camaraderie. “It helped me get closer to other students,” she said. “And it felt good to do something active as part of a team.”
ly, Fiona discovered a love for science, based classes, and even the unexpected of reading To Kill a Mockingbird These en’t just content they were moments of ry She gravitated toward subjects that her to the world and to herself
t of Fiona’s story is the freedom and trust e Montessori model. “It taught me to be he reflected. “I’m still working on ty, but Oak Farm helped me move hat forward motion steady, thoughtful, lt is what defines Fiona’s path.
e in her journey was Jon, an administator r she described as deeply approachable “He’s someone I could always talk to,” “He gave really good advice ” In those ersations, Fiona found the support she nd, just as often, the reminder that she lone
As she looks to the future, Fiona’s dream is clear: to become a counselor and walk beside others on their healing journeys “I want to help people get through what they’re facing,” she said “To be a part of someone’s healing that’s how I want to make a difference ”
And she will With her calm presence, her empathetic heart, and her lived experience of growth, Fiona is already becoming the kind of person who changes lives one thoughtful conversation at a time
When asked what she hopes people remember about her, she doesn’t hesitate: “That I was kind, that I cared about others, and that I worked hard.” And when asked what she would tell her future self, her answer is quiet but profound: “Dwelling on the past doesn’t get you anywhere. Keep looking forward.”
As Fiona Schoonover moves on to new horizons, she does so with humility, grace, and a heart full of purpose Her impact may not have echoed loudly but it resonated deeply And for those who walked alongside her, learned from her, and were lifted by her kindness, her legacy will never fade
Fiona may have walked through OFMS with a gentle step, but she leaves behind a powerful example: that you don’t have to be the loudest in the room to change it She is just getting started and the world will be better for it
t will serve future students for years to come. “It’s cool knowing I helped design places people will use every day, ” she
Looking ahead, Morgan is grounded in purpose Her goals are clear: financial independence, a fulfilling career in healthcare, and using her own journey to guide others. She hopes to support younger students navigating the complexities of college applications and scholarships “I want to be someone they can turn to, ” she says “I figured a lot of it out the hard way. ”
Her advice to future OFMS students is straightforward: “Don’t procrastinate Learn time management Volunteer Colleges want to see who you are not just your grades, but what you care about. ”
If she could leave one message for her future self, it would be simple but powerful: Don’t give up. That message echoes the core of who Morgan Stevenson is a young woman of tenacity, heart, and boundless potential
As she prepares to take her next steps, with Weezer’s “Undone –
The Sweater Song” on full volume, Morgan leaves behind more than just memories she leaves a legacy One of joy, integrity, creativity, and community. She isn’t just a graduate she’s a blueprint. A beacon for what it means to grow with grace and to lead with love
Her academic memories are as rich as they are
diverse: learning the unexpected joys of chemistry
(“more math than I expected, but fun”), the
fascinatingly grotesque lessons of anatomy
dissections, and the calming creativity of ceramics, a
favorite class she pursued throughout high school But
perhaps the most lasting influence came from her
humanities teacher, Rikki fondly referred to as her “school mom ” “She always understood me, ” Morgan
says “Her patience and humor made a huge
difference, especially when I was struggling ”
Beyond the classroom, Morgan embraced leadership
Her junior trip to Barcelona and the spring expedition
to West Virginia, which she helped plan, taught her
the value of preparation and presence “When everything goes according to plan and you helped make that happen it’s an amazing feeling, ” she says.
And, of course, Morgan never lost her sense of humor Known for her laugh-out-loud moments, inventive lunchroom concoctions, and inside jokes like
“probation” and “bumper stickers, ” she leaves behind a trail of laughter and stories “People will definitely remember the loud, funny moments, ” she laughs.
