Dr. Sarah Schecter, Head of Lower School

Dear Lower School Parents,

Thank you for your flexibility and understanding with our current carpool arrangements. I know it is more congested to drop off in the front each morning. For first and fourth grade parents, I am sorry we have continued to make changes to the afternoon carpool to find a workable plan. Hopefully, the plan we are now using can continue until the MAC porch is available. At this time we are working with insurance and contractors to formulate a timeline for completion. Again, thank you so much for your kindness with this inconvenience.

We are thrilled to announce that beloved children's author, Jerry Pallotta, will be visiting The Oakridge School on February 11. He is a favorite among our students, and his popular Who Would Win series is always in high circulation at the Oakridge Library! Jerry Pallotta has been writing children's books for over 30 years and has published over 90 titles.

Students may have any of Jerry Pallotta's books autographed. If you choose to request an autograph, send your books to the Oakridge Library by February 9. Affix a note to each book with your child’s full name and teacher's name. This will help us ensure the autographed books are returned to the correct students. If you have any questions, please contact Patricia deWinter at pdewinter@theoakridgeschool.org.

Our Valentine's Day parties are next Friday, February 13 at 1:45. Students may wear pink, red, or white for this festive occasion, and parents are welcome to attend.

Parent/Teacher Conference Day is February 27. Many of you have already signed up for a conference. If you haven’t, it is not too late. If you are unsure how to sign up or you missed the email, please contact your child’s teacher or Mrs. Butts.

A Note from our Counselor, Mrs. Novoselsky:

This month in our Lower School counseling lessons, students will explore the theme of Belonging and Connection. We will discuss what it means to belong—feeling welcome, included, and safe—and read The Invisible Boy to help students understand how kindness and inclusion can make a big difference. Through discussion, movement, and a belonging mural activity, students practice identifying words and actions that help others feel included at school. Families can reinforce this learning at home by talking with their child about what helps them feel like they belong, encouraging kind and inclusive language, practicing inviting others to join in play, and modeling empathy when someone feels left out. Small, everyday choices at home help children build strong habits of connection and kindness. Thank you for your partnership. 

A Note from College Advising:

College Colloquium, Oakridge College Advising’s signature event, has been rescheduled and will now take place virtually on Wednesday, February 25, at 7:00 PM. This program offers families and students a rare opportunity to hear directly from senior college admission leaders about today’s evolving admission landscape. Registration details coming soon. We hope you’ll join us!

Warm regards,

Sarah Schecter
Head of Lower School