Professional Learning Communities (PLC) brought collaboration within departments and grade levels, training sessions for our new math materials for elementary, junior and senior high schools, and SAMR technology training led by the district’s technology coordinator.
Kindergarten and elementary teachers participated in the Place Based/Outdoor Education PLC to take learning outside, providing abundant opportunities for students to continue to learn and grow.
Teachers across the district attended the two-day High Aims Summer Institute, providing over 109 sessions for learning. OHS math teacher Ian Callon presented Dynamic Math Technology in Students’ Hands and senior Rollie Fisk, presented LGBTQ+ Students and School, representing the OHS student organization.
OHS math teacher Jay Lane completed his fourth summer at the Gaming Research Integration for Learning Laboratory ™ (GRILL™), working alongside military and civilian personnel to leverage game-based technology for STEM education and Air Force training solutions. After developing the content of a semester-long programming class over the last two summers, Lane will teach this new class at OHS this year.
A team of elementary teachers continued collaborating throughout the summer to prepare for the roll out of PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) for Lange, Harman and Smith schools. This initiative allows for clear common language for expected behaviors, positive acknowledgement of appropriate choices and strategies for those who need additional support and intervention.
Students
Programs designed to prevent the “summer slide” by reinforcing and extending students’ reading development brought a new a Kindergarten Reading Immersion Program and a six-week program of Reading Intervention to students.
Secondary Summer School provided an opportunity for students to obtain credit through direct instruction in core disciplines and elective courses, including online options.
Seniors and juniors in OHS French classes toured France this summer, along with teachers Connie Abner and Kim Hobby.
Service and Wellness
Over 300 community members, including many Oakwood students, took part in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life at OHS stadium in July, raising over $18,000 for cancer research.
A joint team of Smith and Harman teachers took their enthusiasm for the GRIT (Greatness, Relationships, Integrity and Teamwork) and Harmanize programs on the road this summer, presenting “GRIT: The Great Equalizer” at the June conference of Ohio Association of Elementary School Administrators. Showcasing an overview of research, materials and hands-on activities, these dedicated teachers provided ideas to fellow educators from around the state to foster grit and perseverance in their students. The team, along with the entire Oakwood schools staff, continues to grow in their efforts to help the young people in the community grow up healthy, caring, and responsible.
The district’s Wellness Committee planned a schedule of year-long activities to include an opening day wellness walk, fall health fair, speakers, and a spring challenge, providing opportunities for staff to incorporate physical activity and healthy choices as part of their fitness goals.
Facilities
Facility improvements brought a new entrance to Oakwood Junior/Senior High School, including renovation of the junior high office to accommodate the new secure entrance, updated public address systems at Smith and Harman schools, and an updated security system at the high school stadium.
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