Tamika Dees, Head of Middle School

October 10, 2024

Greetings, Middle School Families,

In Middle School, we strive to provide a well-balanced palate with the 3 A's (Academics, Arts, and Athletics) at the very core of everything that we do. This week's feature is on our phenomenal Middle School Fine Arts Department, which includes art, drama, choir, strings, and musical theatre.

The Power of Arts Education in Middle School

Change. It's the most frequently uttered word when referencing middle school. Our 5th graders are certainly experiencing a lot this year. Beyond moving between teachers throughout the day and learning to manage their homework habits in study hall, this week, they will complete the first leg of their Fine Arts rotation and try something new next week. While we all recognize middle school as a time of significant change, it is also an important time of discovery as children identify and learn more about themselves and their interests.

The Fine Arts program at Oakridge plays a crucial role in your student's development. It's not simply about giving them opportunities to try something new or learn different artistic skills; it's about fostering emotional intelligence and understanding the world through creative expression. When students can express themselves freely in a safe environment, they learn to understand their own emotions, develop empathy, and build strong relationships.

The Arts also empower students to find their voice. By exploring different art forms, they can authentically share their thoughts and feelings, building confidence and a sense of agency. This empowerment translates to a stronger sense of self and the confidence to positively impact their community. Along those lines, a diverse arts program, like ours at Oakridge, fosters inclusivity. Every day, we see students from all backgrounds creating art together, breaking down barriers, and building a stronger, more welcoming school community.

We invite you to join us in supporting all our talented young artists. They are exploring new skills and need your encouragement. None of us knows who they might become one day, so staying positive and supporting them in all these new endeavors makes a significant difference. Together, we can create a vibrant and enriching school environment where every student feels a sense of belonging and can reach their full potential.

The Middle School Fine Arts Department,

Andy Stewart - Director of Fine Arts 
Brad DeBorde - MS and US Theatre Director 
Jodi Coke - Choir Director, MS Drama, MS Musical Theatre 
Chris Jewett - MS Art Teacher  
Daniel Jamieson - Orchestra Director and 9th Grade Dean  

Information Station: 

Parent Conference Appointments 
Oakridge Homecoming 2024
Visiting Author- Aaron Reynolds, 5th Grade 
7th Grade Class Trip- March 26-28
8th Grade Class Trip- April 9-11
October Food4Life Menu