Dr. Amy Alsip, Head of Upper School

Upper School Families, 

We have had a wonderful first semester in Upper School. Our advisories have made the US hallways festive with our door decorating contest. Photos below display some of our most creative examples. 

Winter Break will run from December 22 through January 6. Students will return to campus on Wednesday, January 7, which will be an A-Day. Semester 1 report cards will be available on January 9. We wish all of our families a restful and enjoyable break.

Our Comfort and Care Drive will continue to run through January 9. Please see the graphic below for the items that Mission Arlington truly needs to serve their families. We REALLY could use your support for this drive that benefits those in our community who have needs. Please consider donating after the break and earn your child house points as well!

Academic Holds:

As a reminder if your student is failing one core class or two or more classes they can be placed on an academic hold for next semester. We do this to ensure students are on track to receive full credit for their courses. If your student is in this situation at the end of the semester you will be notified so a plan for success can be created. 

When we return in January we will have two very important events. Please mark your calendars:

College Colloquium- Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. - FAPH

You do not want to miss College Advising's premier event, College Colloquium, which brings college admission vice presidents and deans to Oakridge to share their insight with our faculty, parents, and students. This year's distinguished guests will join us from Ohio State University, Trinity University, and the University of Southern California. 

With the rapidly changing higher education landscape, the College Colloquium program is an important opportunity to update our families on the admission process and to connect one-on-one with selective colleges and universities. This program is made possible by the generous support of Oakridge's Parent Club!

Class of 2026 Information Night - January 12, 2026

Students and parents are invited to join us on Monday, January 12, at 6:00 p.m. in the Library for the Class of 2026 Information Night. We will review important spring senior events, graduation details, and the Yearbook Ad process. This evening is a great opportunity to get all the information you need to make the final semester memorable. We hope to see all seniors and their families there

We wish you a wonderful holiday season!

All my best,

 

Dr. Amy Alsip
Head of Upper School