Chloe Purvis

Former football coach Jim Prince passes on his dolphin statue to MSA coordinator Michael King in the auditorium on Feb. 26, 2024.

Founders Week is an Ocean Lakes tradition where guest speakers, presentations and displays inspire hundreds of students with school history and personal experiences. 

“I believe that my favorite spirit day for this week would have to be Ambition Day. I also really appreciated Alma Mater Day,” said SCA president Kaia Jackson.

Over 170 people participated this year. 

For example, Jim Prince, the first football coach for Ocean Lakes, visited to share his personal experiences along with the story behind the “I Am Somebody” speech.

Many students and teachers participated in these sessions and showed spirit with a different theme each day.

“Mr. Deviney was the first person I met associated with Ocean Lakes High School. He changed my life. He’s been one of my biggest supporters for 30 years,” said English teacher Jessica Scheible. Scheible was the first named Ocean Lakes valedictorian.

On Thursday, students and teachers dressed up as the founding Principal James Deviney, by wearing khakis, a blue button-down shirt and a tie. 

“Founders Week allows the school community to come together, reflect on its heritage and celebrate its past, present and future,” said Principal Dr. Claire LeBlanc.