Tamika Dees, Head of Middle School

Greetings, Middle School Families, 

The Oakridge Middle School Mathematics Department is simply extraordinary to say the least. Together our math teachers have over 63 years of teaching experience here at The Oakridge School, and believe that math is not just about numbers and equations, but the poetry of logical ideas.

Students in 5th grade math have made tremendous progress this year! They are now fluent in all operations with whole numbers and are able to simplify expressions using the correct order of operations. More recently, they have learned adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions and mixed numbers. Our classes are cultivating a culture of curiosity and collaboration- one where students take risks, share their thinking, and view mistakes as valuable opportunities to learn and grow.

In the Accelerated Honors math class,  students moved quickly through operations with whole numbers and integers, and are now applying their skills to solving multi-step linear equations. They are demonstrating perseverance and learning the importance of showing their work.  

Students in 6th grade math finished their first quarter Canva presentations highlighting their future career choices. Students researched different universities and determined which math classes they would need to take, as well as the cost of attending school for 4 years. To conclude their presentations, the students determined whether they needed post graduate work, to obtain additional certifications, their potential first year salary, and the cost of living. 

In the Pre-Algebra classes, students are off to a great start diving into the fundamentals of Algebra. They have learned how to combine like terms, using the distributive property, factoring, and writing equations with growing confidence.  In Honors Pre-Algebra, translating expressions into math terms was challenging, however acquiring these skills are imperative for learning how to write equations when solving real-world problems. 

Algebra 1 scholars engaged in a fun, real-world project applying basic math and slope concepts to determine whether local handicap ramps met ADA requirements. This hands-on activity effectively demonstrated that slope matters beyond the textbook, fueled by the group's top-tier energy and curiosity. Meanwhile, Honors Algebra began the year with a quick review of foundational skills before quickly advancing into linear equations and graphing lines. Though the core math remained consistent, the application was new as they tackled absolute value equations and compound inequalities. Accelerated Honors Algebra has maintained a brisk pace, starting with a strong foundation of algebraic skills before covering several Pre-Algebra topics like parallel lines, probability, and working with surface area and volume of three-dimensional shapes. The students have now returned to core Algebra and will be dedicated to studying linear equations for the rest of the semester. 

Finally, in Honors Geometry, students started the year with logic and reasoning, and learned just how tricky it can be to write a good definition. In addition, students have reviewed the essentials of geometry, connected ideas back to algebra, and even ventured into some Algebra 2 topics with transformations and dilations. During the second quarter, these mathematicians will be tackling triangles and proofs as we continue building our math muscles.  Please be sure to ask your child about the wonderful things that are happening in the magnificent middle school math courses. 

Semester Exam Schedule

Semester Exam Information:  Dec 15th - Normal full school day (A)

Semester Exams (½ day early NOON dismissal Tuesday - Friday for US and MS students)

Middle School Exam Schedule:

• Dec. 16 - A2 / A5
• Dec. 17 - B7 / A1
• Dec. 18 - B9 / A4
• Dec. 19 - B10 / B6 

*Students in grades 5-8 will follow the exam schedule. 

Cooler Weather Dress Code

Now that the cooler weather has descended, here are a few reminders about our MS Dress Code:

• Collared uniform shirts are required Monday-Thursday, with Spirit Wear Dress Code now on Fridays.  No exceptions.
• Tights may be worn under skirts, but must be navy blue, black, or white (opaque or cable- not sheer).
• All outerwear (including Spirit Days) must be purchased from the school’s approved uniform vendor or the Owl’s Landing Spirit Store. (sweatshirts, fleece zip up, sweaters, sweater vests, etc)
• Sweatshirt may not be longer than the skirt or short
• Blankets may not be used as jackets (i.e. worn as capes)

With gratitude, 

Tamika R. Dees
Head of Middle School