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Tamika Dees, Head of Middle School

March 27, 2026

Greetings Middle School Families, 

Our 6th Grade scholars recently took a leap to the stars for their Constellation Project. This interdisciplinary project blended language arts, history, math, and STEM. Students researched their constellations' story,  determining if it was of Greek or Zodiac origin, and from there they collaborated with their math classes to calculate the distance from Earth to the main star in their constellation.  These stellar calculations were represented in scientific notation, light years, and miles. Using a rigorous rubric, the students worked in groups to design a tri-fold presentation poster and self evaluated their work. 

The final step integrated literature as students designed their own constellation and wrote a story of its origin. Clever creation stories explained how these constellations obtained their number of stars and pattern formation. 

Upon return from Spring Break, the classroom came to life with an experiential day of learning at the University of Texas Arlington Planetarium.  This field trip included a campus scavenger hunt, and Planetarium film titled “Beyond the Sun.” 

It is our goal as Middle School educators to foster an environment where school is more than information outlined in a textbook, but a true real world and everyday experience.

Finally, the 3rd marking period report card can be accessed via your Oakridge Parent Portal and viewed under Classes and Reports. 

Tamika Dees
Head of Middle School

Mr. Burgy shared the following message on the night of the 2026 auction:

“Before we begin, take a moment to picture your child discovering something new on the playground, students laughing together, and friendships forming that last a lifetime. Those moments don’t just happen—they’re created by a community like ours.

Since our founding in 1979, Oakridge has been committed to nurturing the whole child—curiosity, character, creativity, and connection. And the spaces where our students learn and grow play a vital role in that mission.”

That evening, we launched our Paddle Raise: Investing in the Spaces Where Our Students Grow, with a goal of $100,000.

These funds will enhance key outdoor spaces—from play areas for our youngest learners, to a new climbing structure, a revitalized Upper School Quad, and lighting for evening activities.

Together, these spaces will foster confidence, friendship, and joy for every student.

Years from now, students will create memories in these places—because of what we chose to do together that night—and what we continue to make possible through your support today.

It all began with the first paddle. 

Thank you for supporting our Outdoor Spaces Project. 

 

  • April 3 - Holiday No School

  • April 8 - MS and US Class pictures

  • April 9 - Ambassadors of Culture Showcase

  • April 10 - 5th Grade Field Trip to Perot Museum

  • April 14 - NJHS Induction Ceremony 8:30am - 9:30am

  • April 16 - MS UHMS Musical Theatre Performance

  • April 27- Deans’ Day Max

  • April 29 - Walk to the Future

  • May 2 - PSIA State Championships 

  • May 8 - Fine Arts Night

  • May 12 - MS LHMS Musical Theatre Performance

  • May 13 - UHMS Awards

  • May 13 - 8th Grade Celebration & Lunch 

  • May 16 - Senior Class of 2026 Graduation

  • May 19-22 - MS Exams **Early Release 8:00am - 12:00pm