Oaks for Oakridge
In September 2023, a powerful storm hit the Oakridge campus and damaging several of our beloved Oak trees. Later that fall, four inspiring Upper School students brought forward a remarkable idea to make our campus greener and our legacy stronger. After months of dedication and successful fundraising, their “Oaks for Oakridge” vision came to life!
"As a 5 year old, I was in awe of the towering trees. Now that I am in high school, I've come to realize how the oak trees I grew up with have come to symbolize what Oakridge is about, a family that supports you and grows with you." Austin Jones.
"When I was a student at the Early Childhood Center, we would always hang out under the trees on the playground. We would play tag and run around the trees. As we grew, we would collect the fallen sticks and build many log cabins." Connor Karazissis
"In 4th grade we used to play football everyday during recess. The trees were our endzone markers for when we scored. Eventually it led up to nearly half of the grade playing at one time. Without those small factors, big memories cant be made. " Even Krum
"Throughout my time at Oakridge, from the Early Childhood Center to now, being outside near the playground still brings a comforting environment. The trees towering over. When my friends and I would play outside, the trees would not only provide comfort but also a feeling of home. During and after any sports practices, like football, these trees provide shade on a hot day. Growing up it was a great gathering area for my friends while we would play games like hide-n-seek we would run and hide behind them. These trees are meaningful for kids growing up. They are to me and we want them to be for your kids now and for future Oakridge students." Brady McGraw
The first Oaks for Oakridge project tree was planted October 17, 2024 at our middle gate entrance, and on October 29, another tree took root on the Lower School playground. More trees will soon join them across campus, with a special dedication ceremony to follow.
With over $65,000 raised, the Oakridge Community made this project possible—supporting tree planting and care and our endowment.
We’re proud of these students’ vision, initiative, and hard work. Let’s celebrate and grow together!
Click here to make a gift in support of this project.
Click here to see the local news coverage on NBC5.