Tamika Dees, Head of Middle School

December 13, 2024

 

 

Greetings Middle School Families, 

This week the Oakridge Middle School has been merry and bright!  We started Monday off with Candy Cane Bliss wearing red and white. Tuesday we decked the halls in our favorite winter attire. On Wednesday we razzle-dazzled with finesse dressing as our favorite holiday movie character. We were all aboard the Polar Express on Thursday dressing in comfy clothes, and finally Friday we pumped up our winter sports teams by wearing our Oakridge spirit gear. 

Our Lower House students also had an opportunity to visit the Holiday Treasures event sponsored by the OPC. Students had a chance to shop for friends, family members, and their pets. It was such a joy to see our middle schoolers excited about shopping and selecting gifts for their loved ones. The students also enjoyed a winter wonderland during Dean’s Day. From throwing snowballs, playing Jinga, Pickleball, and four square, the students created memories that will last a lifetime. 

On Wednesday evening, our Middle School Orchestra dazzled us with their musical gifts and talents by performing two beautiful pieces in the Winter Concert titled “A Hanukkah Prayer of Thanks” and “We Wish you a Cha-Cha Christmas.”   Playing with such grace and poise was just what we needed to get into the holiday spirit. Then on Thursday, our Middle School Choir performed “Ding Dong! Merrily on High” and  “Snowflake.” The harmony and melody of these timeless pieces and new renditions rang throughout the auditorium. 

Finally, as we prepare for finals week, please review the final exam schedule and discuss dismissal times with your child. Your child does not need to come to school if they do not have an exam at the scheduled time. We also know that for many of your children, final exam week can be stressful and may cause anxiety. Here are a few tips to help them stay calm: (1) review notes, study material, and practice problems; (2) get plenty of rest the night before; (3) eat a good breakfast. 

It has truly been a pleasure watching your children enjoy these magical moments, while making lasting memories with their friends and teachers. The joy, laughter, and cheer that has filled the classrooms and hallways this week has been a gift that keeps on giving.  

Exam Week: 

Students in middle school will be dismissed following the conclusion of their last exam each day. Therefore, the library will be closed during final exam week (except for required ECC and Lower School classes).

Middle School bus riders without a second exam may use the Middle School Learning Commons to wait for noon bus dismissal. After noon dismissal, 5th-8th grade students also have the option to utilize Owls’ Nest until 5:45 pm; however, families need to register in advance in order to use this service. If interested, please visit this link to register for Owls’ Nest next week.

Please let me know if you have any questions regarding transportation for next week, and please reach out to your divisional leadership if you have questions regarding final exams or dismissal times/procedures.

Happy Holidays!

Tamika Dees
Head of Middle School

 

Information Station: 

Middle School Semester Exam Schedule

7th Grade Class Trip- March 26-28

8th Grade Class Trip- April 9-11