Oak Park grads venture forth from 'the bubble'
By Sophia Fischer sfischer@theacorn.com

BILL SPARKES/Acorn Newspapers MADE IT!- Nazaneen Roksanna Ramezani of Oak Park celebrates at the Oak Park High School graduation ceremonies.

Leaving "the bubble" was a common theme in student speeches during the Oak Park High School graduation on June 14. A small, quiet community, Oak Park is often referred to by residents as "the bubble," for its appearance of being sheltered from the outside world.

During the ceremony, held in the school's stadium against the scenic backdrop of rolling hills and mature trees, students spoke of their conflicting feelings: fear of leaving the protection of Oak Park for the unknown, of being separated from longtime friends, as well as excitement over a new beginning.

Others challenged classmates to use what they learned in the Oak Park bubble to make a difference in the world.

"One would assume I'd be excited as I stand here tonight," said Adam Schall, who plans to study at the University of Southern California. "But I'm scared and simply petrified that the life I've known these past four years is coming to an end."

"Class of 2007, it's time for us to make our own path no matter how scary it may seem," said Kareem Maddox, who will attend Princeton University. "Oak Park High School instilled in us the skills necessary to succeed."

Lisa Rotenstein, who plans to study at Harvard University, urged her peers to make positive changes in a society in which a "spark has ebbed."

"Ours is a world, a country, crying for change," Rotenstein said. "Now it is time to break free of the bubble that is Oak Park and share our gifts with the world."

Rotenstein, along with Max Hirsch, was named valedictorian; they were also honored as "Outstanding Male and Female Graduate." Tiffany Chang earned the salutatorian distinction.

The high achieving class of 280 Oak Park High School seniors and 14 Oak Park Independent School graduates included 88 graduating with academic distinction.

Oak Park Unified School District Chair Marie Panec, whose daughter, Michelle Roll, was among the graduates, offered both a compliment and a challenge to the seniors.

"You have become incredible young men and women. Live the life you imagined," Panec said.

Principal Lynn McCormack recognized teachers and parents for their contributions to students' success.

"This evening, as you toss your cap, all of us pray you will be bold in your learning . . . and that you will never stop marveling at what this world has to offer," McCormack said.