Tamika Dees, Head of Middle School


August 28, 2026
Greetings, Middle School Families,
We are definitely off to a great start in Middle School this year! Our students are mastering the skills of opening their lockers, arriving to class on time, and being prepared for the day. During this week's advisory period, students discussed methods for staying organized, managing their time effectively, and developed a class charter. These executive functioning skills are an important part of their academic endeavors, valuable in the workforce, and most importantly, in life. Don’t forget, students need a white 1” three-ring binder with a clear view cover to house advisory handouts and materials.
As we continue to build a partnership with our families and develop Owls who are phenomenal scholars, here are some tips on how our parents may engage in the learning process at home:
- During the week, ask your child what they’re learning in class and how this may apply to the real world.
- Encourage your child to review/study their notes for 10-15 minutes a day.
- Develop routines/procedures to help your child with organizational skills.
- Inspire perseverance.
We welcome you to come out and support all of our sports teams! This is an opportunity for students to cheer on their classmates and create lifelong memories. Athletic events are posted on the Athletic Calendar in the parent portal. Parents, please remember middle school students should not be at an event without adult supervision.
We also encourage you to join the 2026 - 2027 grade-level Remind Groups for quick reminders and updates.
Class Trips: We are putting the finishing touches on our grade-level trips. If your child is not participating, please notify us this week. Since regular classes for each grade will not run on their trip days, non-attending students will stay home.
We look forward to 100% participation in these one-day excursions. Our class trips provide excellent learning opportunities, team bonding, and more importantly, fun memories for our students and teachers. For planning purposes, the trip cost is $150. Please register your child below:
- 5th Grade: Trinity Forest Adventure Park, Dallas, TX
- 6th Grade: Camp Grady Spruce, Graford, TX
- 7th Grade: Dynamix, Carrollton, TX
- 8th Grade: Dynamix, Carrollton, TX
Experiential Learning Trip
7th and 8th grade: Houston STEM- Sign up HERE
This trip is a cornerstone of the 7th and 8th-grade experience at Oakridge. From going behind the scenes at the Johnson Space Center to exploring cutting-edge medical and energy research in the heart of "Space City," students will move beyond the textbook to experience science, technology, engineering, and math firsthand. This experience is designed to foster independence, curiosity, and a deeper connection to the innovations shaping our future. It is an opportunity for students to apply their classroom knowledge in a real-world setting while building lasting memories with their peers.
Finally, please come out and support our Middle School sports teams! This is an opportunity for students to cheer on their classmates and create lifelong memories. Athletic events are posted on the Athletic calendar on the parent portal.
With Gratitude,
Mrs. Tamika Dees
Head of Middle School
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:

- Friday, September 4th- College Shirt/Colors Day
- Monday, September 7th - No School (Labor Day Holiday)
- Tuesday, September 8th - 7th Grade Class Trip
- Wednesday, September 9th - 8th Grade Class Trip
- Friday, September 11th - 5th Grade Class Trip
- Friday, September 18th - 6th Grade Class Trip
- Friday, September 25th - No School
- Monday, September 28th - Dean’s Day
- Monday, October 5th - Middle School Picture Day
- October 9 - 12 Fall Break
- October 13- 16- Spirit Week
- Friday, October 16th - Homecoming, Early Dismissal
- Friday, October 30th - No School (Parent-Teacher Conferences)
Yearbook Sales!
A limited quantity of 2025–2026 Oakridge yearbooks is still available for purchase. If you haven't secured a copy for your student yet, you can order directly through the portal using the link below while supplies last:




