Tamika Dees, Head of Middle School
August 8, 2025
Greetings Middle School Families,
I hope you are enjoying these last few days of summer and creating long-lasting memories with your family. As I have had an opportunity to reflect over the last two years as Head of Middle School, I am excited to embark on this upcoming journey with our middle school stars.
Our Middle School theme this year is “Out of this World”. At Oakridge, we believe that the adolescent period is all about seeking new information, thinking outside the box, and learning how to facilitate “Big” emotions. We navigate a universe of learning, from mastering complex equations to exploring the depths of literature. Our scholars are on a mission, courageously venturing into trying new things and discovering their own unique potential. We also believe in an intricate balance between the 3 A’s (Academics, Arts, and Athletics) as our educators endeavor to unlock the gifts, talents, and passions beyond the classroom.
In addition, social-emotional well-being is also vitally important. Therefore, as a Middle School Team, we will go to infinity and beyond in helping our middle school scholars learn how to become self-advocates and develop leadership and collaboration skills.
It is with great pleasure that I welcome two new dedicated and talented educators to our team. Mr. Jonathan Rubin brings over 6 years of project-based learning experience and his infectious enthusiasm for teaching math. His energy and creative approach to teaching is truly “Out of this World.” This year, he will be teaching Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, and Honors Geometry. We are also excited about Mrs. Melissa Otto, who will be serving as our Middle School Administrative Assistant. Mrs. Otto is a former teacher who brings a wealth of experience and business expertise from management in corporate America. Her warm smile and calm demeanor has truly been a great addition to our team.
As the adventures of summer are coming to an end, we are extremely excited to welcome our new and returning Owls. Below are a few reminder links. Also, to view your child’s class schedule for the 2025-26 school year, please log in to your “My Oakridge” parent portal.
CLASS TRIPS:
We aim for 100% participation in these one-day excursions. The $150 class trips offer valuable learning opportunities, team bonding, and fun memories for both students and teachers.
- 5th Grade Class Trip- September 12- Trinity Forest Adventure Park
- 6th Grade Class Trip- September 19- Camp Grady Spruce
- 7th Grade Class Trip- September 9- Dynamix/ Community Service activity
- 8th Grade Class Trip- September 10- Dynamix /Community Service activity
In addition to our class trips, we look forward to providing an optional, theme-based learning experience for 7th and 8th-grade students. The 7th/8th Grade Experience- Civil Rights Tour Spring of 2026 will be hosted by Grand Classroom Register Here (payment plan offered).
Please click the link for an important video announcement from myself and Mrs. Lane, Director of Student Life. In the video you will find more detailed information about the upcoming 2025-2026 school year.
SAVE-THE-DATE:
8.12.25- New Student (6th-8th) & 5th Grade Student Orientation, 2:00 p.m.
8.12.25- All Student Middle School Social, 5:30 p.m.
8.15.25 & 8.16.25- MS Locker Setup, 9:00 - 12 p.m. (Optional)
8.16.25- Back-to-School Bash, 9:00 a.m.
8.20.25- First Day of School
8.25.25- MS Parent Night 6:00 p.m. (Parents Only)
We look forward to partnering with our Middle School families this school year, as we endeavor to continue this amazing new journey in “The Middle.”
Middle School Contact Information:
Mrs. Tamika Dees- Head of Middle School
tdees@oakridgesch.org
Mrs. Melissa Otto - MS Administrative Assistant
motto@theoakridgeschoo.org
Mrs. Lori Lane- Director of Student Life
llane@oakridgesch.org
Sincerely,
Tamika R. Dees
- 8.12.25- New Student (6th-8th) & 5th Grade Student Orientation, 2:00 p.m.
- 8.12.25- All Student Middle School Social, 5:30 p.m.
- 8.15.25 & 8.16.25- MS Locker Setup, 9:00 - 12 p.m. (Optional)
- 8.16.25- Back-to-School Bash, 9:00 a.m.
- 8.20.25- First Day of School
- 8.25.25- MS Parent Night 6:00 p.m. (Parents Only)
