At Oak Grove School in Ojai, California, we often share moments of silence with our students, from preschool through 12th grade, as a whole community, in small groups, and individually.

On August 28,1963, on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his most famous speech, “I Have a Dream.”

At Oak Grove School in Ojai, California, we often share moments of silence with our students, from preschool through 12th grade, as a whole community, in small groups, and individually.

We are always honored to be part of this important community celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who said, “Change does not roll on the wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous struggle.”

As educators and parents, we have an important role in contextualizing disturbing world events like the recent violent takeover of our country’s capitol. After a year of challenge after challenge, this will require reaching into our deepest reserves of energy and resilience. But we must do what we can to provide a sense of understanding and stability amid chaos. We are obligated to take an active role in building a healthier, more just future.

Like so many annual events that have been adjusted this year, our annual High School Winter Showcase went virtual.

From the time we are in the womb through our elderly years, touch plays a primary role in our development and physical and mental well-being.

There is a palpable feeling of uneasiness as we find ourselves in the final moments of a contentious presidential election, while continuing to navigate the fallout of the ongoing pandemic. Even with our best efforts to shield our concerns from our children, they feel it.

The Friday before Halloween, we had a lively campus full of creative costumes, storytelling, decorating pumpkins, pizza, candy, and a high school scavenger hunt! Enjoy this short Halloween video.

Continuing with what has become a yearly tradition, elementary and middle school Spanish teacher Eva has created a colorful Día de los Muertos altar by the Main House. This week, students have decorated sweets to add to the altar and are also placing photos there of loved ones who have passed away. Also displayed is student artwork created in commemoration of this tradition.