Vinnie Rolfness | 2008

What do you teach at South?| American Sign Language, Intro to Business, Public Speaking

Favorite Saxon Memories as a Student| When thinking back on high school, something that keeps coming back to me is how happy people were to be here at South. Teachers were excited everyday to teach classes and work with students. As a student we found ways to get involved and build relationships with our peers. South has always had a way to make every student feel involved no matter their interests or passions. Students took pride in the fact that they got to represent South Salem High School in whichever aspect it was. Nothing brings all of this together like graduation at South. Students get to share a field with the teachers that pushed them on their journey in education and life while their family and friends sit and cheer them on. As the sun sets over the building, this magical experience is something I hope all Saxons get to experience and cherish as I did.

Some favorite memories were: Everyday Class, Band Competitions/Trips, Sporting Events, DECA (State and Nationals), and Graduation.

Favorite Classes when a Student at South | American Sign Language, Business, Band, Weights

Favorite Saxon Memories as a Staff Member| Being a staff member at South has been an incredible experience. As a student I got an opportunity to live through traditions and have the positive impacts of the staff on my life. Now as a teacher, I get to see students go through these similar traditions and create their own story. South is truly a special place to not only go to school, but to come to everyday as an educator. There is a reason why so many alumni are on the staff here at South Salem High School. We know what being a Saxon means to people and we get to come to work everyday to this special place and work to make a difference.

What were you involved in at South? | I played baseball my freshmen year and Matt Smith was my coach. I was in Marching Band all four years and I was in the Wind Ensemble my junior and senior year (won state both years and was apart of South's 6 year straight championship run).

List any highlights in life |

Saxon Achievements:

2007 Band State Champion - Wind Ensemble

2008 Band State Champion - Wind Ensemble

2007 All City Honor Band

2008 Top 10 Marching Bands - Festival of Bands (1st time in program history)

2008 McGilchrist Cup Recipient

2007 1,000lb Club Member

2008 National Qualifier for DECA (Buffalo Farm)

Graduated Honor Roll

Besides working your dream job, what else are you up to in life? | In 2020 my wife and I opened our new food cart in our hometown of Stayton. It has been an incredibly difficult journey, but it has been one of the most reward experiences of my life. Between working full time and South and trying to launch a new business it is hard to find time for anything else. However, when we can find time to get away from working, Mrs. Rolfness and I enjoy traveling to Central Oregon or visiting family.

What don't we know about you? | I am not the first in my family to attend South. My grandparents came to South, Aunts, Uncles and even cousins have or are still attending South!

What advice would you give your high school self? | My biggest advice to my high school self is to not force a plan to happen. Often in life we have to take what comes our way and make the best of it. Having a dream is a great thing, but you shouldn't get so wrapped up in the idea of it that you miss what is happening right in front of you. Work hard and do everything you can to achieve your dreams, but be sure to enjoy the journey along the way.