Lower Campus Head of School Message

By Laurie Clark -

It is my pleasure to welcome you here for the commencement of the Lower Campus Class of 2021. We all know this year had some challenges and I am very proud of how OVS handled our pandemic year. We followed the research, contacted other schools, submitted waivers and re-opening plans, attended meetings (a lot of meetings) and we were one of the few schools in the valley that opened up on time We were one of the only schools that stayed open with safe and healthy students and staff.

town, no friends, couldn’t even go out to go meet friends. Peter and I became empty nesters with our daughter, Amelie, going off to college and starting up a new job during a pandemic. There were a few times I wanted to remember the tough things. I remember amazing staff members who were so supportive and welcoming; every one of them had stories to tell me about how great OVS is and how awesome the kids and families are, and told me, “You are going to love it here.”

I remember how devoted the administrative team was to open the school and give the students as “normal” of an experience as possible; that showed how much they care. I remember how kind the families were when we arrived and some even stopped by the school to meet me and show how appreciative and supportive they were once we were open. That showed how supportive the community is! have positioned each of you well for the next part of your journey. You will be an OVS 8th grade graduate, and you are well prepared for whatever your future may hold.

Once the students were on campus, I remember how loud they were compared to when they were online, but also how adaptable they were. The students were kind, friendly, respectful, well-spoken and smart — all the attributes you want in a school when you are new. Bottom line: it has been a tough year for all of us, but there are so many shining moments that came out of this year and I am honored to work at OVS and be a part of this community.

Students, I also want to thank you for welcoming me this year to OVS; for your strong leadership as 8th graders and for setting positive examples for the younger students, especially during COVID. You kept your heads up high and should be proud of yourselves.

Major Awards

Sportsmanship Award

Mary Moses

The highest honor we can give an eighth-grade student. Its purpose is to commend the student who, with his or her actions and attitude, contributed to the school community in a sensitive and constructive manner in all phases of school life.

HEAD OF SCHOOL’S AWARD

eighth graders, have made during their years at Lower Campus.

MICHAEL J. HALL-MOUNSEY AWARD

Honors the boarding student who has consistently served as an outstanding role model for his or her peers and who has demonstrated initiative, leadership, and responsibility.

JB CLOSE AWARD

goals of the Ojai Valley School Outdoor Education program. His or her consistent contributions to camping, backpacking, and rock climbing trips, love and respect for nature, and commitment to helping others in the face of adversity set this student apart.

MICHAEL D. HERMES AWARD

Given to the most outstanding eighth-grade student athletes.

PAUL PITTMAN MEMORIAL AWARD

Recognizes the student, or students, who have exhibited the most enthusiasm and is an active participation in the equestrian program.