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Above: Families return to campus after Winter Break.
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Jodi Grass
A Message from the Head of School
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Today we continue to bear witness to unthinkable oppression based on race, religion, ability, age, gender, sexual preference, and identity here in the U.S. and elsewhere in the world. Right now, several wars and violent civil conflicts are being fought over ethnic and religious differences.
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Maybe it is the awareness, or the clarity, that human equity is possible, yet seems so far away from reality, that leaves us feeling demoralized. The Dark Ages lasted for 324 years and the Enlightenment for 130. Shifting consciousness often spans generations, rather than a single human lifetime. If we look at human history as a whole, we can see improvements in the human condition and a decrease in violence overall. Is human dignity on a slow trek forward or is it simply circling the same inability to see beyond these issues?
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“We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.” This statement was made by Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr. more than half a century ago – a long time ago – but in the long stretch of history, is it?
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I am reminded that Malala Yousafzai is a household name.
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I can’t speak to the future or if it is even possible for humanity to meaningfully and sustainably respond to human suffering caused by division and perception of “difference.” I can, however, be aware of my own biases and prejudices; continue to be curious and humble when it comes to making assumptions about the experiences of others; stand up against behavior aimed to shame, divide, or exclude; and give voice to suffering.
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In January, we celebrated MLK Day, a day to honor strides made toward equity in civil rights. I wonder how we might continue to imbue this work into the other 364 days of the year.
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Please talk to your children about oppression. Teach them to honor (celebrate) differences. To stand up against injustice and cruelty. To consider how we are all connected with a shared future. Dr. King said, “Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” This is the sacred conviction of the teachings of Krishnamurti: “What you are, the world is, and without your transformation, there can be no transformation of the world.”
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High School
Mini Projects
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While the high school senior class is visiting our sister schools in India each year, the High School at Oak Grove dedicates two weeks to our “Mini Projects.” During this time, instructors lead small groups of students through an in-depth learning experiment into a craft, skill, or concept that piques the curiosities of both teachers and students.
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This year, High School Mini Projects included Personality and Career Exploration, Five-in-Five Improv, Needle Felting, Better Baking, Wilderness Survival Skills, Better Baking, and ceramic Wheel Throwing.
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6th Grade
Where Does Our Water Come From?
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6th grade students embarked on a science field trip with Once Upon A Watershed, hosted by program director David White. Students learned up close about the Steelhead’s unique migration patterns, the Matilija dam removal project, and sediment transportation from mountains to beaches. Tap below to learn more about this enriching program.
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January
Photo Highlights
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Enjoy a photo gallery of recent moments on campus, as well as an archive of older photos.
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The Middle School Honor Band performed The Beatles' "Let it Be" at Ojai's annual Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration.
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Head of School
Headspace Podcast
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Recently, Jodi was interviewed about her role as head of Oak Grove School. Listen in to learn more about her path to leadership, how her values align with Oak Grove’s mission, and how she has navigated big changes at a small school.
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Celebration of Life
Michael Krohnen
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Michael was an integral part of our community, dedicating nearly 50 years of his life to the Krishnamurti Foundation of America. He played a pivotal role in shaping the vision of the Center in Ojai. He was a familiar face, a caring soul, and the first point of contact for many who visited the KFA.
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K Quote
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“If you lose touch with nature you lose touch with humanity. If there’s no relationship with nature then you become a killer."
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Socially Speaking
A recent Instagram post —
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Thank you Bay Area alumni for joining our little OGS gathering in San Francisco yesterday.
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Follow Us
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Upcoming Events & Programs
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Learn more about the programs offered by the Krishnamurti Center
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