Goodbye 2025! A Peek into 2026

Oakhill Day School Acorn

 

What a fun few weeks it has been! The decor, the holiday shows, secret santas, and winter parties make the start of the holiday season so special. As we wrap up 2025, I wanted to say thank you to all of our families for an unforgettable first semester. Oakhill is truly a one of a kind community and it’s largely because of the students and families that we have. Thank you for making every day the best day. As we say goodbye to the first semester, here is a look ahead for the second half of the school year! 

Many of you received an email from me about a new program that some of our teachers and I will be implementing called the Let Grow Experience. If you have a child in K-5th, you have already received information about this program. If you have children in Early childhood or Middle School, don’t stop reading!! While it will be implemented at school for K-5th, this is something that is applicable to everyone and I strongly encourage you to do so! Here is why: The Let Grow Experience is a monthly homework assignment that asks kids to find something they have never done before and do it on their own. This could be anything from climbing a tree to making breakfast, walking the dog around the block, running an errand, etc. The idea is that when kids do something new on their own, they are building confidence, resilience, and recognizing that they are SO capable. Trying new things can be a bit scary, but by encouraging our children to push through uncomfortable feelings, we are helping them learn that some anxiety and discomfort is okay. They can do hard things! If you are an Early Childhood or Middle School parent and would like to do this at home, please reach out and I will send you the information to get started! Stay tuned for updates on our students as they begin the Let Grow Experience.

Next up and something that we are very excited about is the continuation of our Parent Education sessions! Last year, Mrs. Verwers and I held two different “Tech Talks” about technology, parenting, and its ties to the mental well-being of your child. This year, starting in February, we are hosting more Parent Education sessions that will be presented by guest speakers from our community. The goal is to continue providing helpful information and tips for success for parents at all stages of the parenting journey. Dates are still being finalized, but be on the lookout for information to attend these sessions in person! 

Lastly, this year we are excited to participate in the Global Day of Unplugging. The Global Day of Unplugging is a 24 hour period of digital detox that begins at sunrise on March 6th and finishes at sundown on March 7th. At Oakhill, we will celebrate this day on Friday March 5th, 2026. We will have a completely tech free day where students and staff will learn, interact, and play without the use of screens! We strongly encourage your family to participate at home and use that time to connect with one another, just like the good ole days before smart phones, Disney+, and high speed internet. Check out their website to learn more https://www.globaldayofunplugging.org/ and see how you can participate at home! 

I hope that everyone enjoys a much needed break, time with family, and the opportunity to reconnect, make memories, and be merry! See you next year! 

Mrs. P