Tamika Dees, Head of Middle School

January 30, 2026
Greetings Middle School Families,
A cornerstone of The Oakridge School’s curriculum is the intentional development of leadership and public speaking skills. As educators, we recognize the importance for adolescents to be able to operate with courage and confidence as they are preparing for the landscape of college and the future workforce. This vision came to life during our “Oakridge Live! All School Showcase” event, where we utilized middle school ambassadors, grades 5-8, to serve as tour guides.
The student ambassadors included newly enrolled students as well as those who have attended Oakridge since preschool. This provided prospective families with an array of perspectives on our different course offerings, activities, and Oakridge culture. Ambassadors were able to share their unique experiences and what makes attending The Oakridge School a welcoming community and a premier environment for academic rigor.
By investing in these types of leadership experiences early, we aim to build a foundation of communication and social interconnectedness that is sure to set students up for success in the future.
Wellness Wise: Spilling the Middle School Tea

We would like to invite you to an evening of insightful discussion hosted by Madison Thomas, an EMDR trained therapist from The Salyer Counseling Group.
The middle school years bring unique changes and challenges. During this session Madison will discuss the complexities of the early teen years and provide practical strategies for parents and guardians to stay connected, supportive, and present during this pivotal era.
We look forward to seeing you there for this valuable conversation. Please use the QR code in the graphic or RSVP by logging into your MyOakride Parent Portal and clicking the orange registration link.
Tamika Dees
Head of Middle School

- February 6 - Progress Reports Published, 4PM
- February 16 - Holiday No School
- February 17 - Wellness Wise: Spilling the Middle School Tea *Parents only
- February 20 - 6th Grade Field Trip to Perot Museum
- February 20 - Lunar New Year
- February 21 - PSIA
- March 3-6 - Civil Rights and Social Justice trip
- March 16-20 -Spring Break
- March 23 - Student Holiday
- April 3 - Holiday No School
- April 9 - Ambassadors of Culture Showcase
- April 10 - 5th Grade Field Trip to Perot Museum
- April 14 - NJHS induction ceremony, 8:30am
- May 8 - Fine Arts Night
- May 8 - Early Dismissal
- May 13 - UHMS Awards Presentation and 8th Grade Celebration, 8:45am
- May 19 - 22 - Semester Exams and Early release days, 8:00am - 12:00pm
- May 22 - Last Day of School




