What it Means to Be An Oriole

Avon High School student Doyin Akande has already won two state championships as a member of the Speech Team and this summer she placed 13th in the nation — all before the start of her junior year. So when Superintendent Dr. Scott Wyndham asked her to give a short speech in front of 1,500 Avon Schools employees at their Back-to-School Celebration on Monday, July 28, he knew everyone was in for a treat.

At Avon, all 11,000 of us learn, belong, and grow. But more than that, we’re accepted and appreciated — not just for what we do, but for who we are. And that’s something worth showing up for every single day. Doyin Akande

Doyin wowed the crowd as she spoke about what it means to be an Avon Oriole. She gave her permission to present her speech here. Enjoy.

What it Means to Be An Oriole 
by Doyin Akande

Being a member of the Avon High School Speech Team, I can definitely nerd out over giving a speech. But this morning, as we gather to start another school year, I thought we could enjoy one of my favorite parts of school. No, I’m not talking about recess — and sorry, I don’t have any chocolate milk — but how about a little story time?

Remember that part of the day when you could just relax, listen, and wonder? Well, today I have three stories for you:

The first story is about my younger brother. Back in kindergarten, he couldn’t sit still long enough to finish a math lesson — let alone read an entire story. Elementary teachers, I’m sure you have no idea what I’m talking about. My brother single-handedly stocked the lost and found, interrupted me far too many times, and, quite frankly, turned our calm home into a whirlwind of chaos.

But instead of writing him off, his teachers reassured my family that he would get the education he deserved. Thanks to their relentless support and the care of the Cedar Elementary staff, my brother received an ADHD diagnosis and the help he needed. The learning curve was steep — but because of their patience and determination, he didn’t just survive school — he thrived. 

Another story is about the people I’ve met in Avon.One of my friends, Rodiat, speaks three languages. Another, Tanmeet, is always traveling and eager to share parts of her Indian culture. And then there’s Santiago — he’s lived in Avon his entire life, and he’s curious about my Nigerian culture, too. He loves debating current events and comes up with the strangest ideas. My friends never leave me a dull moment.

Our achievements are only possible because of our staff’s care, our celebration of diversity, and our commitment to community. Doyin Akande

I’ve attended four school districts, and I can say with certainty — what makes Avon special isn’t just the programs or the buildings. It’s the people. Our diversity is a gift, and it’s something no book or online lesson could ever replicate. The relationships I’ve formed here have shaped my understanding of the world and transformed who I am. You see, at Avon, we’re not a melting pot but more like a tossed salad. Each story, each identity, keeps its shape and flavor, and together we create something stronger, something richer. Here, everyone belongs. Everyone’s story has a place and a purpose. 

And my final story? It’s about volunteering as the bounce house coordinator at the annual Ghost and Goblins event. It’s held every year at Avon Township Park, and I had the opportunity to volunteer through the Avon School and Community Ambassador Program. Even though my feet hurt, and it was difficult to tell small children to wait their turn, it was still an important job. And totally worth it, I mean, everyone had a blast! Because being an Oriole means contributing to something bigger than yourself. It’s about showing respect, giving back, and making your school and your town better, one small act at a time.

So — what does it mean to be an Oriole?

Scroll through our district’s webpage and you’ll see a flood of accolades. And yes, those honors matter. But here’s the thing: those achievements are only possible because of our staff’s care, our celebration of diversity, and our commitment to community.

At Avon, all 11,000 of us learn, belong, and grow. But more than that, we’re accepted and appreciated — not just for what we do, but for who we are. And that’s something worth showing up for every single day.

So thank you for all that you do and may you all have a wonderful upcoming school year.