Oakdale Elementary Ends Year with Recognition Ceremony

Oakdale Elementary School Principal, Holli Armstrong, chose the last full day of the school year, to hold a school-wide “recognition ceremony.” In spite of the 95 degree heat and the anticipation of their upcoming summer vacation, the 350 plus students of the school showed their pride and respect by sitting patiently as the ceremony unfolded.

Ms. Armstrong told the group just “how proud” she was to be their Principal. Their “dedication to their work, their school, the community, and one another, has made a difference in many lives.” Sadly, she told her 5th grade graduating class, that this was their last Oakdale assembly. She would however, follow their path through Middle School, High School, and beyond.

State Representative Paul McMurtry was on hand, to congratulate the students, wish the 5th graders his best, and to present a commendation to retiring teacher Ruth Dorsey. Mrs. Dorsey was chosen as a State finalist to receive a Presidential Award for excellence in teaching.

Principal Armstrong called to the stage, many students that had gone above and beyond expectations this past year. Applause went out to the Spelling Bee and Math Champions. Music Teacher Bryan Bigelow, paid tribute to over a dozen students who received their “black belts” in music this year. 5th grade teacher Maryanne Beakes and her class won the school trophy for most dedicated music class as well.

This year at Oakdale, almost 40 students in grades 1-5 finished the year with “perfect attendance.” The mixed group of boys and girls, in all grades, took to the stage as their peers cheered them on.

At the end of the ceremony, a Special Achievement Award was presented to graduating 5th grade student Kara Kilroy. Kara was recognized for completing “5 whole years” at Oakdale without missing a day. That is 900 consecutive days of school! The last time this feat was accomplished at Oakdale – two years ago – ironically by Kara's older brother Corey.

Congratulations to all of the students at Oakdale and our best wishes to the 5th grade students in September at the Dedham Middle School.