What’s Next For the Class of 2025?

On June 2nd at 1:30, the White Oak community will gather to celebrate the members of the Class of 2025 with a very special White Oak Graduation ceremony. These seniors have big plans for their futures!

Mark Baymon will enroll at Holyoke Community College to study Culinary Arts. After that, he plans to work in fast food or at a convenience store. Mark then plans to work at a restaurant while he saves up for his dream job! Ten years from now, he hopes to own his very own food truck, “filled with tasty mouth-watering BBQ that could fall off the bone.” He also hopes to work at his favorite school by not only helping with the food but also teaching kids about culinary arts. Mark’s favorite White Oak memory was when he first got to the school and realized that, “there are a lot of people like me and they have learning struggles as well.”

Sam Cullen will travel with her family this summer before enrolling at Holyoke Community College in the Fall. She plans to transfer to a 4-year college to earn her Bachelor’s Degree. Currently, Sam’s career goal is to become a Forensic Psychologist, though she notes that her plan could change. Sam shared two pieces of advice with the younger students at White Oak: “Compassion makes people more likable,” and “Your actions have consequences.” 

Gadiel Ortiz-Muniz is looking forward to beginning the Educational Paraprofessional Program at Holyoke Community College this Fall in preparation for a career in education. Gadiel has aspired to a career in education since he first started at White Oak. His advice for younger students is, “Keep being yourself and be proud of the progress you make!”

Tiffany Maharne will enroll at Westfield State University in the Fall. She plans to major in Criminal Justice and minor in Social Work. In ten years, Tiffany plans to be a successful police officer doing her best to help people. Tiffany’s advice for younger students at White Oak is, “Don’t be afraid of failure because sometimes failure is the best thing that can happen to you.”

Eli Morley plans to work hard this summer while taking some time out to “hang with the fam!” Eli plans to complete an apprenticeship and night school to become a licensed electrician. Ten years from now, he hopes to be working on substations as a Union electrician working for the National Grid. Eli shares that his favorite White Oak memories involve Tutorial with Ms. Daley and Mr. Rodak and how Ms. Michalski, Ms. Daley, Mr. Rodak, and Mrs. Ricco “are always there for me.”

Paulina Rutkowski is excited to continue her education and career training in the Westfield Transition Program. Ten years from now, she hopes to be working at her dream job – as an Activities Assistant at an Assisted Living Facility or Senior Center. Paulina’s best advice to younger students is, “Be kind to your friends!” 

Olivia Standish will travel next year before enrolling in college. She plans to begin at a community college, then transfer to a 4-year college such as the University of Hartford. In addition, Olivia plans to become a certified dog trainer. Ten years from now, Olivia hopes to own and operate a successful service dog business. Outside of school, she loves to participate in car shows and train dogs!

Kyle Wickles plans to continue his internship at Look Park this summer, then obtain a full-time job. He plans to earn Security and Firearms certifications. Ten years from now, Kyle hopes to have a successful career as a Security Supervisor or TSA Officer. Kyle’s favorite White Oak memory was completing an internship working with younger students in gym classes – to whom he will always be known as “Mr. Wickles!!!”

Courtney Yaple has been accepted at Asnuntuck Community College. Her favorite White Oak memory was being a part of the Student Council. At ACC, she plans to study Psychology or Criminal Justice. In ten years, she hopes to have a successful career as a therapist or a victim’s advocate. 

On May 16th, White Oak hosted its annual Senior Recognition event to honor our Seniors. Eli M, Kyle W, and Tiffany M each received an athletic letter to recognize their contributions to our athletic teams. Tiffany M was awarded a $500 scholarship from the Westfield Womens Club, and Kyle W was serenaded by the lower school students with a special song just for him. In a separate ceremony, Mark B and school chef Mr. Micks were recognized for their culinary talents!

Congratulations, White Oak Class of 2025!

We are so proud of all of you!