Ashley Read '05, Head of Early Childhood

September 4, 2026

Dear Families,

This week, students have been focused on using magic manner words. Behavior sends a message to people about the type of person we are. Additionally, we discussed that if we get in the habit of being kind to others, we are telling people we are a kind person. When we help classmates, we are sending a message that we are helpful. When we choose poor behaviors, we send a poor message so we may need to stop, think and reflect on, “What message is this behavior sending?” We greet others with our eyes, our hands, and our words. 

Books that support using good manners:

• Please, Mr. Panda by Steve Antony
• Just Say Please by Gina Mayer
• What Pets Teach Us by Andrea Donner
• Do Unto Otters by Laurie Keller

1st Wednesday recap from our PS - 2nd school counselor, Ms. Solby: 

“It was so great to meet all of you that were able to attend the ECC 1st Wednesday. During 1st Wednesday, we talked about the importance of routines and transitions, as well as ways to help your child open up and share about their day after school. Routines are very important for young children because they help build a sense of safety, security, and predictability. Transitions can be challenging for young children, but using transition-preparation strategies can help make these changes easier and more successful. Lastly, we discussed some simple conversation starters and creative activities that can help young children feel comfortable opening up and sharing about their day. Here is a link to the Powerpoint Slides from my presentation. I would love to get 1st Wednesday topic suggestions, as I want to ensure your family is receiving information about relevant topics. Please complete this form to help our team identify and bring in professional speakers who can share helpful information and resources on the topics that interest you most! My contact information is msolby@theoakridgeschool.org and my direct office line is 817-563-9754. Please feel free to reach out. I would love to partner with your family!" 

A Visit from Bella Outreach: 

The Preschool classes welcomed a visit from the Botanical Gardens Bella Outreach Program. The Botanical Gardens team will visit the Preschool classes every month throughout the school year to help connect students to the wonders of the natural world. The program combines children’s literature with hands-on nature exploration on our campus and Environmental-STEM activities. This week, students became “botanists” using their 5 senses to explore specific parts of the plants. Our preschool students enjoyed traveling outside the ECC to explore plants in our environment. 

The Countdown To Homecoming Is On

Get ready, Oakridge, because one of the most anticipated events of the year will soon be here. We're brimming with excitement as we prepare for an out-of-this-world Homecoming celebration on October 16, 2026. Prepare for a classified experience as we unveil the official 2026 Homecoming theme: Oakridge: Area 79. Please click here to access all Homecoming information. The transmission link will go dark on October 6, 2026 so be sure to get your Homecoming T-shirt Order in before the form closes. Students can wear their 2026 Homecoming t-shirt to school on Friday, October 16. Additionally, we invite you to join us on October 16 at 10:00 a.m. for the annual Homecoming Parade and hope that you will come back to the O.A.C. (Oakridge Athletic Complex across the street) for the football game that evening. 

Warm regards,

Ashley Read, Oakridge Class of 2005
Head of Early Childhood 

2026-2027 Calendar & Key Dates

2025–2026 Yearbooks Still Available

Did you miss your chance to order a yearbook last school year? A limited number of 2025–2026 Oakridge yearbooks are still available for purchase.

Families who would like a copy may order through the link below while supplies last:

Purchase a 2025–2026 Oakridge Yearbook