Principal Mark Sokolowski Bids Farewell After a Great Year

As the school year comes to a close, Oakville School is looking back on what Principal Mark Sokolowski calls a year full of learning, growth, and special moments for both students and staff.

“It’s been a fantastic year,” said Sokolowski. “It’s gone very fast. It’s hard to believe that this Friday is the last day of school. We’ve seen lots of learning, many positive things, and numerous chances for kids.”

One of the year’s standout moments was a spring break trip for Grade 6 to 8 students to Quebec City, Montreal, and Ottawa. The group traveled with students from schools in Alberta, allowing participants to meet new friends while discovering Canadian history and culture.

“Seeing the Parliament Buildings up close was quite an experience,” Sokolowski remarked. “It was an amazing week with the kids; they were wonderful travel companions.”

Oakville students in Grade 6 – 8 traveled to Quebec on a Spring break trip (Photo/Oakville School)

The school also prioritized bringing experts and hands-on learning experiences directly into classrooms throughout the year.

One unforgettable experience featured a visiting dog sled team. Students learned about the history and cultural importance of dog sledding before meeting sled dog puppies. A few weeks later, the team returned with a full dog sled setup, giving students rides and letting them learn firsthand about working dogs.

Another exciting event included a visit from a great grey owl, which offered Grade 4 students and staff an extraordinary chance to see the magnificent bird up close.

“For many of us, it’s rare to be so close to an animal like that,” Sokolowski noted.

Oska the owl visiting Grade 4 students at Oakville School (Photo/Portage Online Brittany Boschman)

Strong Programs and Community Support

This year also brought a successful Christmas concert along with achievements in athletics, arts programming, and applied arts opportunities.

In February, Oakville School’s educational assistant team received a Yes, I Can certificate recognizing their contributions to both students and the school community.

EA’s from Oakville School posing for a picture at the Yes, I can Awards where they received an award (Photo/Oakville School)

Sokolowski also highlighted a recent field trip for all grades to Camp Manitou where students engaged in outdoor activities and camp experiences.

“Many of our kids have never attended day camp before,” he mentioned. “It was nice to have this opportunity as we wrap up the year.”

The principal acknowledged the school’s Parent Council for making many of these experiences possible.

“They work tirelessly and incredibly hard to raise funds,” he said. “This really helps us provide various opportunities for our kids that we might not otherwise be able to offer.”

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Pride in Academic Success and School Culture

While special events made this year stand out, Sokolowski expressed equal pride in academic accomplishments within the school.

According to school statistics, Oakville students are performing at or above provincial averages in several areas-especially literacy and mathematics.

“That’s thanks to our amazing teachers and educational assistants-and of course our hardworking students,” he stated.

Beyond academics, Sokolowski pointed out that one of Oakville School’s greatest strengths is its welcoming culture that promotes inclusivity.

Visitors frequently remark on how positive the atmosphere is along with how respectful our students are-showing strong community spirit.

“We often hear comments like ‘What a welcoming school you have’ or ‘Your kids have such great manners,'” he added. “That’s something we take pride in.”

A Heartfelt Farewell

This year marks Principal Sokolowski’s final tenure at Oakville after four years as well as his retirement from education altogether.

Reflecting on his career in education, he shared gratitude towards everyone involved-school division members parents staff-and especially his wonderful students who made his final years so fulfilling.

“It’s been such an honor working alongside these individuals who genuinely care about kids,” he said.
He extended special thanks toward his student body whom he credited for making these last four years rewarding.
“I want to thank them for letting me be their principal over these past four years,” Sokolowski expressed. “It’s been quite an adventure.”

Mark Sokolowski sporting a Panthers jersey in the gym (File photo/Portage Online Brittany Boschman)

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