By Breahna Martin

Since 1994, every winter, Ocean Lakes High showcases a week filled with presentations from alumni and guest speakers so that students learn about the foundations of the school’s past. Every year, it features a different theme.

This year’s theme, “Currents of Excellence, Waves of Tradition,” highlights the balance between Ocean Lakes’ longstanding values and the achievements of its students.

“Founders’ Week is a time for teachers to reflect on the foundation of Ocean Lakes and celebrate some of our founders,” assistant principal Jenna Filipowicz said.

In addition to reflecting on the school’s history, Founders’ Week, held from Feb. 9-13, gives students the opportunity to engage with those beyond the classroom. Through guest speakers and events, students are encouraged to learn about the school’s origins and the good that has come from those who have walked these halls.

“I believe that the student body remains loyal to this tradition since we all hope to be a part of something bigger than ourselves in the form of Ocean Lakes’ rich traditions and heritage,” SCA President Robinson Chen said.

The impact of these traditions is also noticed by teachers and staff, particularly those who have seen the event evolve since its creation, and several staff members contribute to its annual success. They spend months preparing and recruiting speakers that will inspire.

Filipowicz and assistant principal Dr. Carrie Gantt shared their gratitude for a successful week.

In a recent email to faculty, Gantt said: “We especially hope your students have gained a sense of pride and belonging here at Ocean Lakes High School. A huge thank you to our 2026 Founders’ Week Committee members for their tireless efforts to make this Founders’ Week the best week yet. Thank you, Allison Graves, Leslie Samuelson, Jim Cartwright, Kim Bedinger, Erin Lunenfeld, and Gloria Rosado.”

Other staff members echoed the value of this annual tradition.

“I think I appreciate Founders’ Week more as a teacher, but now I see how it calls alumni to show up and show students at our school that if they have a dream, they can achieve it,” said math teacher Natalie Kasmarek, a 2019 graduate of Ocean Lakes. “It’s super cool to me to see people, that even I went to high school with, sharing their stories to my current students.”

Founders’ Week began 31 years ago, and as it continues, it remains a meaningful reminder of what it means to be a part of Ocean Lakes.

“I love that we have lasting traditions like Founders’ Week,” Kasmarek said. “We continue to show spirit and commitment to Dolphin pride every day.”

Breahna Martin is a sophomore and journalist for The Current, the Ocean Lakes High School student news website. She is a part of the Ocean Lakes Field Hockey team and Student Advisory Board.