Twice a year, six Oak Grove students in both middle and highs school are recognized by their peers and teachers for embodying one of Oak Grove’s Shared Values.
Shared values, much like a mission statement, are meant to be timeless in their reflection of the organization’s character and culture. When Oak Grove is shining brightest, when we are at our best, the atmosphere and culture that carries us to those heights should be most clearly seen through the shared values.
Last year, the tradition of Shared Value Awards was expanded to include faculty and staff. It is an honor to celebrate those who shape our students. This year’s six winners were announced first at Chapel and then at the Gala.
Seth Brandl
Community
This faculty member has worked hard to help to grow and re-establish a strong legacy at our school. He has created an incredible culture of making music fun while also promoting hard work and progress. He encourages students not only to grow as individuals in their pursuit of the arts, but to work together to build something beautiful.
His friendliness and encouraging nature is admirable and he is very personable with his students, fostering a sense of community for all who walk through his doors.
Kris Domitrovich
Faith & Reason
This faculty member commits to placing God at the center of her classroom has made a lasting impact on many students. Her approach to teaching instills a love for learning, and a passion for God and the Bible. She integrates faith into every aspect of learning, and is placing Jesus in the hearts of students, creating a strong foundation. She is such a special gift from God!
Lysney Rittenbach
Relationships
This faculty member fosters a relationship of growth, encouragement and understanding. She helps students gain confidence and independence in organization, schoolwork, and time management. She goes the extra mile to learn what areas each student individually struggles with and in what ways they learn best.
She’s not only a mentor, but a role model—respected and admired by the students she inspires.
John Juhl
Courage & Curiosity
This faculty member consistently fosters an environment where students feel safe and encouraged to explore their musical talents without fear of judgment. This courage to experiment is nurtured by this educator’s unwavering support. He doesn’t just teach notes on a page; he cultivates the bravery within each student to step outside their comfort zone and discover the unique potential of their “God-given gifts.”
Furthermore, this faculty member ignites a genuine curiosity within his students. His passion for music is infectious, prompting them to delve deeper into different genres, composers, and techniques.
Mark Pederson
Service & Leadership
This staff member consistently demonstrates Christ-like compassion, kindness, and joy in his everyday actions. He goes out of his way to make everyone feel welcome, greeting students and parents with a smile and a friendly attitude during drop-off and pick-up. He not only helps things run smoothly, but he brings a fun and uplifting presence that brightens everyone’s day. His willingness to serve with genuine care and positivity is a true reflection of leading through love and humility.
John Conant
Character
This faculty member is an individual of high character. He has high expectations for his students and holds them to his high standards. He gets his students to work hard in his class, and they come away with a feeling of accomplishment when they succeed. He is an exceptional educator who blends academics with humor. He connects with students on a personal level and is a trustworthy mentor. One student shared, “He shows he really cares about us and wants us to do the best we can.”
Congratulations to all six of our award recipients! Oak Grove is so lucky to have each of these individuals as part of our community.
