Why We Give

Tracy and Mark

Bellomo Warshaw Family

“Supporting Oak Grove is easily a priority for us because we have witnessed first hand its impact on our son, his classmates, and the student body; on personal development and critical thinking; on self-confidence, patience, and understanding.”

When we first began searching for a school for our young son, Easton, nearly a decade ago we were looking for a place that valued more than ABCs. A learning environment that nurtured creativity, curiosity, and connection with the natural world. A school that recognized each unique child in the collective whole. A safe place to thrive in knowledge and learning.

We found an overwhelming sense of wonder and peace among the oak trees. Our first year on campus, we would always say that we wished we had gone to school here. It’s something we hear echoed in conversation with other parents, as well. How might it have changed our lives? How might we have grown? What might we have understood about ourselves and the world we live in, had we experienced the influence of such a thoughtful, inquisitive, educational environment as children?

Supporting Oak Grove is easily a priority for us because we have witnessed first hand its impact on our son, his classmates, and the student body; on personal development and critical thinking; on self-confidence, patience, and understanding. Our experience here feels like more than we had hoped for. And more hope for all of us, as our children grow inward and outward into the world as active participants.

In a climate that feels increasingly divided and uncertain, a school like Oak Grove feels more important than ever. Our children are prepared with more than academic knowledge, but also the confidence, resilience, and compassion needed to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie beyond the shade of these trees.

Easton is now in 8th grade, and we realize how silly it was to lament that we didn’t get to go here, because we do! This experience is all of ours. We are wildly grateful to have partnered with this special group of teachers, parents and caregivers in our shared learning.

It’s our privilege to invest in the value of Oak Grove. We believe in its impact beyond the years of life we’re all navigating together.

We cherish it with love and gratitude.

Tracy Bellomo and Mark Warshaw

Recent Blog Posts:

What is Education

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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.

MLK Day Celebration 2021

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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."

Talking About Confusing World Events

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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.