Tamika Dees, Head of Middle School

February 2, 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 Art Department which includes art, drama, choir, strings, and musical theater. Our students in Middle School have an opportunity to not only utilize their skills in the classroom but also through a variety of outside entities and the community. 

According to Brad DeBorde, “The artistic expression of theater is that of storytelling. Theater gives us a live human experience that unfolds before our very eyes. A good actor through the medium of acting has the ability to express truth in a fictional circumstance.”

Diane Findley explains, “The expression of performing arts is vital to humanity. This fosters creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking in a way that nothing else can.  The discipline and commitment that is required for a performance of any art form can only facilitate growth in a person’s emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and empathy.” 

“Art is what you need it to be. It is a way to express thoughts, feelings, ideas, and emotions that are difficult to put into concise words. It creates community and connection, releases emotions, promotes growth, shares perspectives, enhances culture, and records history.” As so eloquently stated by Daniel Jamieson. 

Our Director of the Fine Arts, Andy Stewart believes, “Consuming and creating art represent the most direct path to realizing one’s own potential for empathy. Being able to relate to artistic mediums immediately connects us to the human condition and reminds us, even in times of deep division, that we have a shared human experience that connects us.”

Finally, Chris Jewett contends, “The creative exploration and communication through the visual and/or performing arts has always been a vital part of my life. Both the process and the product of others’ creative endeavors was fascinating and moving to me, which enticed me to learn how to be a part of that process myself. Art is about the discovery of the overall individual and developing what is already inside you.

We are so excited about all of the amazing opportunities in store for our middle school artists. Here at Oakridge we firmly believe that “An artist is not paid for his labor but for his vision.” -James McNeill Whistler

OPC Valentine’s Dessert Party Sign Up: Please review the available slots for Wednesday, February 14, and sign up here. Your child may drop off desserts at the Middle School Office that morning. Please do not send any desserts with nuts. Thank you for your help in making the Middle School Dessert Party a success! 

MS Parent Teacher Conference Day Appointments: MS Parent Teacher Conference Day is Friday, February 19. There will be no classes on this day. Use this link to make an appointment with your child’s teachers.

With profound gratitude, 

Tamika

February Food4Life Menu