Book of Gratitude 2018-2019
2019-2020 Admissions Profile Total number of students enrolled: Total number of boys:
252
536 Total number of girls:
Total number of students by division:
130 284 161
Acceptance rate:
ECE
Elementary
109 136
130
Retention rate:
Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid
Excludes transitional grades
High School
Total number of new students:
81% 92%
Middle School
21% Median % per NAIS: 25%
*As of October 1, 2019
Ethnic Diversity Caucasian 44% Multiracial 20% Asian 19% Decline to identify 5%
Page 2 Oakwood School
Geographic Diversity Latino/Hispanic 5% Middle Eastern 3% Other 3% African American 1%
Morgan Hill 55.5% Gilroy 24.4% San Jose 11.9% San Martin 4.8% Hollister 2.0% San Juan Bautista 0.4%
Milpitas 0.2% Campbell 0.2% Los Gatos 0.2% Saratoga 0.2% Gonzales 0.2%
2018-2019 Fundraising Highlights
A Culture
Oakwood School is building a vibrant philanthropy program that relies on the generosity of time, talent, and treasure which are invested in the learning experience of each student. Our school is growing in new ways and our community is a vital part of this growth.
f Giving
Oakwood received
1,143 Individual Donations
Thank you to our over
100 special events, activities, field trips,
and meetings for parents, teachers, and students!
216 gifts
74% increase
in 2018-2019
first time donors
were from
Thanks & Giving Celebration
171 Feast Bins for Community Solutions (a new record!)
1,279 Books for El Toro Club House
73 donors giving every year for 5+ years
PSA who helped to facilitate
in # of gifts over 2017-2018
123 Students
100 %
completed
8,540 Community Service Hours
Faculty & Staff
Board of Trustees
participation
participation
210 Students competed in 10 Sports on 26 Teams 33 families were members of the Leadership Circle (gifts of $2,500 and above)
53% of donors increased their FY19 giving over FY18
Students performed in
35 Oakwood Productions & Concerts
over
Book of Gratitude 2018-2019 Page 3
Dear Oakwood Family,
Thank you very much for the role you played in making 2018-2019 another wonderful year at Oakwood School. It was a banner year for so many reasons, and celebrating the school’s 20th Anniversary was certainly a highlight. For those of you who were here last year, I hope your children have fond memories. And if you are new this year, we are already on our way to making new, lasting memories, most notably the incredible additions to our campus. How grateful I am for the generosity of the Oakwood families, as the report that follows demonstrates. You will see that participation was up, and that our Spreading Our Roots campaign in support of our campus expansion, which will continue this school year, was met with much success. In addition to financial gifts, so many of you have given the gift of your time. I have witnessed countless volunteer hours unselfishly donated to support our mission in so many ways: investing time at PSA events,
volunteering for classroom activities, and spreading positive words about the Oakwood experience. You have each made an invaluable contribution to our school. As you peruse this publication, I hope you feel the deep gratitude we have for each of you and the many ways you have chosen to support Oakwood School. It is more than simply a list of people who have given their time, talent, and treasure to Oakwood. It is a remarkable volume of thanks and a testament to our community’s enduring generosity of spirit. Warmly,
Michelle R. Helvey Head of School
Dear Oakwood Community,
The 2018-2019 school year represented an amazing period of growth at Oakwood School. As we reflected on our past and looked ahead to our future, we witnessed change at every turn. With the launch of Spreading Our Roots, we cemented our path for the coming years, and there was no better representation of this forward momentum than the ongoing Campus Expansion Project. Throughout the year the foundation for our future in expanded music, performing, visual, and digital arts offerings and an even more robust athletics program was laid, and the incredible steel structures grew out of the ground. Today, visitors take note of the Liberal Arts Center’s impressive lobby and theatre, and we are prepared for the final touches and dedication ceremony for the Upper School Athletic Center. This project truly highlights the importance of enhanced education to our whole child approach and preserves the legacy that previous Oakwood families set forth for our community. To move us forward, it takes the entire community. The many parents volunteering in every capacity across campus, alumni engaging in their reunions, and Page 4 Oakwood School
participation in our many fundraising efforts are just some of the many testaments to the strength, commitment, and devotion of our Oakwood family. It is the investment of time, energy, and resources of our faculty, staff, parents, alumni, board members, grandparents, alumni parents, and friends who define the Oakwood experience for our students and ensure the same for future generations. Thank you for making Oakwood School a place we can all call home. We cannot thank you enough for your ongoing support and the difference you continue to make in the lives of our community. Warmly,
Melissa Barrow Director of Development
Class of 2019 Graduates
# of college and university scholarships and awards offered upon acceptance to the 28 Oakwood High School 2019 graduates:
54
Oakwood’s Class of 2019 SAT average:
1310 National average composite SAT score for 2019:
1060
# of Honor Cords awarded at graduation:
College Board defined excellent SAT score (90%):
1340
97 Book of Gratitude 2018-2019 Page 5
2018-2019 Fundraising Overview We began the 2018-2019 with the launch of Oakwood’s first capital campaign, Spreading Our Roots. To support the need to expand our campus footprint and the academic, arts, and athletics offerings we provide our students both current and future, Oakwood began construction on the Liberal Arts Center and Upper School Athletic Center. Our fundraising efforts were geared toward the Campus Fund and the successful completion of these spaces in time for the 20192020 school year, and thanks to your support, this dream became a reality.
2018-2019 Fundraising Totals Total FY19 Giving $702,338
Spreading Our Roots Campaign
The results to the right came from the partnership of our Oakwood community—comprised of parents, students, faculty, staff, grandparents, alumni, and friends. An impressive number of you donated philanthropically this year, and did so in an exceptional way. In 2018-2019, Oakwood’s incredibly generous donors gave a total of $702,338 including campaign commitments—a significant and historic record for our school. We cannot thank you enough for this generosity, and hope you will partner with us again this school year in the same giving spirit and embrace all that Oakwood’s future has in store for our community.
Upper School Athletic Center, August 2019
Page 6 Oakwood School
Liberal Arts Center, August 2019
$344,061
Fund Run $202,057
Roaring 20th Auction $156,220
Oakwood School Campus, August 2019
2018-2019 Donors You Make a Difference We extend our sincere thanks for the many ways you supported Oakwood School in 2018-2019. Whether you were an Auction underwriter, contributed to the Fund Run, supported the Spreading Our Roots efforts, or gave of your time within the school—we are sincerely grateful. Because of donors and volunteers like you, we are able to live our mission every day. Every year Oakwood supporters join together to help advance the mission of the school. Your immense generosity has an immediate and lasting impact on the lives of our students. Thank you to the entire Oakwood community who helped make our 2018-2019 fundraising efforts a great success.
H
Head’s Circle $25,000 and Above
F
Founders’ Circle $10,000 to $24,999
Bill and Heather Christopher Ted and Michelle Helvey Pat and Heather Lord Vic and Carolyn Riches Ed and Julie Sattler John and Kim Thornton
Stephen and Helen Holter Deron and Lisa Jackson Shachar and Emily Shem-Tov Steve and Lilly Weissinger Xianjin Yang
P
S
Patrons’ Circle $2,500 to $4,999
Derek and Angie Banks Raymond and Sarah Blanchard Brandon and Tere Casey Ryan and Melissa Goulart Michael and Lacy Gutierrez Steve and Sandra Lowe Ferdinand and Kathy Manalili Peter and Laura Moosman Rodney and Karen Park Steve and Gail Potter Dennis and Pat Riches Chris and Melissa Sorci Mark and Elizabeth Striebeck Subramaniam Vinod and Renoo Nathan Joe Zhao and Angela Chen
T
Trustees’ Circle $5,000 to $9,999
Steve and Erin Atkinson Charles and Margaret Burback Giacalone Family Ron and Wendy Gong Larry and Lori Kent Amir and Wajeeha Khan Jeff Ota and Stephanie Neustadter Noah and Heather Price Leonard✝ and Stephanie Procker The Betty R. & Ralph Sheffer Foundation Ram and Geetha Varma
Spirit Club $1,000 - $2,499
Tom and Renee Afflixio Ted Chin and Helen Rhee Patrick and Alison Comerford Patty Crone Mandeep and Parveen Dhillon John and Anna Gorski Jennifer Hagen Charles and Marilyn Hansen Kevin and Joan Hayden Cameron and Mckenzie Helvey Michael ’09 and Annie Helvey William and Grace Helvey Rob and Lindsay Hessling Kameron and Joy Khojasteh John and Millette Litzinger Michael and Dawn Lyle John and Shaneen Monaco
Erik and Vanet Murawsky James and Kirstin Nagy Michael and Cary Neunzig Ian and Christina Nyquist Garth and Kathy Pickett Jozef and Barbara Plata Andrew and Mary Prunicki Torsten and Angela Reinert Karen Richardson Tom and Diane Selby Gordon and Christine Shales Michael and Hanane Stanghellini Ryoji Watanabe and Lily Li Joe and Viridiana Velasco Joseph and Tanaya Williams Xinjiong Xu and Annie Ni
✝Deceased The following pages contain the names of those whose gifts were received during the fiscal year July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2019. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information. If you have been incorrectly listed or omitted, please accept our apologies. Please notify the Development Office at giving@oakwoodway.org with any questions or concerns.
Book of Gratitude 2018-2019 Page 7
2018-2019 Donors (continued) H
Hawk Club Up to $999
Anonymous Mitchell and Kathy Abbey Issac and Jayme Abernethy Mark and Kristine Acquistapace Royce Agustin Diane Aiello Michael Aken Khaled and Karen Aldada Carlos Garcia Alvarado and Johnna Lee-Garcia Jim Angelopoulos David and Monique Anthus Ygal and Anna Arbel Daniel and Laurie Armino Geoffrey and Karen Arnold Karen Astrachan Gregory Austin and Julie Lyon Karen Azevedo Kirk B Rashid and Marjan Bahrainy Brinda Balagopal and Kanchan Dilip David Bandy Lauren Barber Chris and Melissa Barrow Paul and Stephanie Barton Ben and Sara Bascom Vishal Bathija and Rina Sutaria Danny and Maria Bautista Matthew and Stephanie Behan Kevin and Misty Beilmann Jen Bell Ron Belliveau Richard Benedict Sam and Lauren Benedict Caryn Bergquist Diane Berney Isaac Berniker Ben and Staci Betancourt Travis and Colleen Blanchard Laura Blotter Philip and Jacqueline Bogosian Nelson and Evelyn Bornasal Carl and Diana Borsody Chris and Nicole Bosso Ronald and Melissa Bowers Crystal Brandhorst William and Kathie Briggs Don Britton Todd and Cathy Broch Brian and Dana Bruning Ken and Cindy Buciak Karen Burback Derek and Lorraine Burgstrom Sean and TaShana Burke Katcha Burnett Tobyn and Micaela Buschini Danny Bushart Jorge and Rebecca Cabrera Tracy and Melissa Call Lesley Call Mary Cambria and Adam Lyon
Page 8 Oakwood School
Jim and Christine Carrillo Mark and Judy Cash Steve Caspary and Robin Millard Poppy Ceaser Jason and Wendy Chamberlain Jim Chapman and Brenda Black Thomas Chen Ryan and Megan Christian Jason and Silvia Christopher Nicholas and Stacy Cintas George Cintas Danielle Cipolla Gene and Penny Ciraulo Ian and Alisa Clawson Marsha Clawson Kamuela Cobb-Adams Jordan and Samantha Cole Doug and Penny Conn Shirley Cook Megan Cook Bruce Coons Daniel Cote and Karin Reak Tess Cote Jay Couch and Myrna Robles Couch Victor and Tamila D’Elia Eric Dahlin Matt Dahlin Shahrokh and Ramak Daijavad Prasanta Dash and Jayashree Mishra Dantley and Courtney Davis Katie Davis Anton and Theresa Davydov Sheryl de Bree Tom Deckowski and Claudia Tseng Judith Dekker Anthony and Ursula DeShaw Corinna Diener Richard and Gin Dietz Christy Donahue Diana Doughty Stephanie Chew Douglas Mark Dover Eli Drabman Stephane and Jill Drouin Kathy Durrant Barbara Durwood Chad and Joy Dvorak Philip and Kelli Elizondo Mike Elwell James and Vanessa Erickson David and Ana Fajnor Chris and Karla Fenton Bryan and Stephanie Fernandez Steven and Helen Fieler Richard and Aimee Fiorito Richard and Sandy Fiorito Alan Firpo and Rhinda Bal Julie Firth Kelsi Flatland Chris and Siutaisa Fleizach Damon and Carla Focaracci
Christopher and Vicky Foland James and Janine Forman Melany Forsgren Dave and Kelli Frazer Lauren Frazer Linda Frazer Michael and Ethyn Frugoli Richard and Tiffany Fuller Mike Gallagher Nancy Gallo Francisco Garcia Jessica Garcia-Kohl Dave and Julianne Garnett Alberto and Jennifer Gastelum Eric and Melissa Gerber Catalin and Elena Gidea Harmandeep Gill and Poonam Dhaliwal Kathy Giordano Tracey Givens Jim Gleuck Michelle Goldman Todd and Mirka Gomes Brandon and Jenine Greenley Ken and Julie Greenley Maciej and Mara Gudrymowicz Leticia Guizar James Guthrie Paul and Sabina Gutierrez Katie Gutierrez Lisa Ha David and Charlotte Hamilton Brad and Michelle Hannula John Hansen Jay and Cami Hanson Eric Hansotte and Luna DeCurtis Marisa Hare Maury and Rachelle Harwood B. Hatch Keith Hayden Steven Helvey Trevor and Jessica Hendrickson Thomas and Joleen Hensley Darlene Hensley Melissa Hensley Amanda Hernandez Patricia Hernandez Rob and Lindsay Hessling Charles Hicklin Daniel and Kristina Hicklin Amanda Hobbs Rudy and Dawn Hofmeister Randy Huang and Huitzu Chiu Robert and Kathryn Huff Kevin and Jennifer Hwang Rafael Insignares and Lucia Calonje Stephen and Bella Ireland Carol Irving Keith Isozaki Holly Jankiewicz Kimberly and David Jarvis
Hawk Club Up to $999 (continued) Robert and Rosanna Jenks Christopher and Stacy Jensen Kort and Cherie Jensen Dallas and Kimberlee Jensen Derek and Emily Jensen Brett and Nicole Johnson Jonathan Johnson and Jenna Kammann Nigel Johnson Rob Johnson and Karen RowlandJohnson Rome Johnson and Jeanne Mickey Alicia Juarez Will and Jayme Kabelac Kevin and Wendy Kaefer Carolyn Kamidoi Bessy Kanazawa Ryan Kanazawa Mehmetcan and Tugce Karahan Theresa Busch Katz and Larry Katz Susan Kazdan Michael and Gillian Kendall Daniel and Jennifer Kim Shawn and Teri Kim Scott Kindlund Frank and Lisa King Karl and Wendy Sue Kissa Diego and Virginia Martinez-Kisso Art and Donna Klingbeil Jim Knox Heidi Kobata Min and Sue Kobata Michael Kohl Soren and Leah Koldewyn Michiel and Claudia Kouwenhoven Elena Kracht Jeffrey Kreulen and Frances Andria Jim Krieg Curren Krishnan Vince and Ana La Corte Alan and Jennifer Laabs Kris and Cristina Lambrechts Robert Lapso Jason Lara and Mia Flores John Lark and Melissa O’Malley Philip and Jennifer Laws Kevin Le and Chi Diep Abraham Leach and Maria Alvarez Peter and Melia LeCompte Nicholas and Jamie Lee Gretchen Lee Laura Leecing Dan and Ana Lelescu Jason Leong and Liana Kishi Paul Lerma and Mary Lineen Debi Lewis Xu Li and Hong Shi Rosemary Lowry John Luce Ralph and Sue Lyle Christine Macias Barb Macias
Donor Spotlight: Erik and Vanet Murawsky, Parents ’25 Before coming in as a new Oakwood family in the 2018-2019 school year, we did our homework and research before making our decision to enroll, but we had also seen firsthand the type of quality, high character young individuals the school has been producing. Now, with our second school year underway, our family’s expectations have far been exceeded in numerous positive ways! The Oakwood staff and student families are extremely welcoming which creates a comfortable atmosphere while generating an amazing focusdriven community with the ability to accomplish any goal. The genuine care and dedication by the teachers for their students success is something we cherish and appreciate. With so many resources and avenues of support available to the students and their families, we are certain we’ve placed our daughter on the correct path for Middle School success. The moment you step foot onto the Oakwood campus, it’s clear that it’s more than just a place for our children to learn but a place to get involved, participate and support. All while having the pleasure of watching our students grow into well rounded leaders of our community. No matter what the individual interests of a student may be, there will be an immediate sense of belonging while pursuing their passions and elevating their potential to the highest level in this exceptional environment. Our daughter, Amber, is excelling in her Middle School career at Oakwood. She has met wonderful friends, enjoys her classes and enrichments, and is involved in numerous extracurricular activities that she wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to participate in at other schools. Soccer, track and field, performing arts, and the Junior Theatre Festival are just a few activities she has enjoyed while at Oakwood and we know there is even more on the horizon for her year after year. We choose to support Oakwood both through volunteerism and philanthropically because of these very opportunities. Without widespread support from the parent community, Oakwood would be a very different place for our children. Our time spent assisting with athletics, community events, in the classroom, or on committees enhances everything the school has to offer, not only for our daughter, but for all of Oakwood’s students, present and future. Our family is happy to continue investing in a school that provides a rich and robust experience for our daughter and hope you will join us. We’d love to work with anyone interested in finding creative ways to give back to this special environment, so please don’t hesitate to reach out. Book of Gratitude 2018-2019 Page 9
2018-2019 Donors (continued) Hawk Club Up to $999 (continued) Francesca MacNaughton Cesar Madrueno and Yesenia Castillo Kaleigh Mallette Cathie Mann Tony and Melissa Marquez Candice Martin Jackie Matthews Lynn and Judy Matz Chris and Shawna Matz Ken and Cathy McKeever Raquel McLennan Emmanuel and Emily Mendoza Honor Mercer Beverly Mercurio Douglas and Melinda Merten Bly Mickey Craig and Sue Millard Charles and Jill Miller Gretchen Miller Jason and Lori Miller Gervasio and Kristina Minoza Nicole Minoza Mike and Geneva Mintun Lijuan Mo Abbas Mohammad Jyovonne Montosa Hui Sok and Charlynne Moon Matthew and Heather Morgan Maureen Morris Mike and Michelle Mortensen Luis and Rosa Moya Peter Murawsky Malcolm Myers and Monica Delgado John Mylius and Kathy Craig-Mylius Mahesh Nagarajan and Kamela Hariharan Mikio Nakade Lissa Nakamura Alan Nakao Jane Neilson Matt Neilson David and Karen Neunzig Gary Neustadter Bob and Tiffany Nguyen Tuan Nguyen and Cindy Phan Thanh and Anne Nguyen Tan and Christine Nguyen Jeremy Niskala and Stefanie Mortimer Gerald and Patrice Niskala Katie O’Connor Devin Pace Suzanne Pace John and Shelly Paiva Arthur and Julie Pak John and Lynn Pappa Frank and Christine Paradiso Nick and Ashley Paradiso Alan Paradiso Dave Paradiso Umashankar Parida and Durgarani Mahalik Chris and Joanne Parise Jitesh and Kinjal Patel
Page 10 Oakwood School
Ritesh and Bina Patel Steven and Jaime Payne Vincente and Jennifer Paz John and Janine Pelosi Karen Pelosi Roshan Perera and Angela Colford Carlos and Heather Perez Paul and Sandra Perryman Jeff and Tami Piper Nick Plante Allen and Deanna Polm Claudia Polo Katelynn Pompa Lauren Pond Raina Poria ’12 Nicholas and Theresa Possley Richard Powell, Jr. Andy and Chanat Praserthdam Diane Price Ed Price Thomas and Kimberly Purtell Sharon Ransom John and Cindy Reak Cristin Reak Sue Redfern-West Betsey Reid Dagmar Reinert Anthony and Brittany Reitz Ruth Revallier Eric and Pearl Richardson Kenneth Riches Bruce and Lori Riggins Aaron and Shi Riggins James and Kathi Robinson Mark Rogers and Joan Hammel Jose and Elizabeth Rojo Gilberto and Guadalupe Rojo Arnaldo and Brenda Roldan Linda Rosser Kathie Rossi Gary Rosyski and Shawna Gordon Tom Rowland Arthur Rudin and Susan Braun Johnny and Marjan Sacil Andrea Saenz Amir and Ayda Saffarian Neeraj and Bala Sahejpal Susan Sakai-McClure Jude and Sarah Saleet Alex and Veronica Salvatti Adam and Christy Samarel Patricia Sandvig Marc Santos Fred Scatena, Sr. Ryan and Amy Scatena Daniel and Christine Schulz Donna Segura Ann Sheffer Fenglei Shi and Jun Li Kim Shiltz Donovan and Kimberly Shiveley Atul and Suman Singh Bhanwar Singh
Shweta Singh Peggy Smith Frank Smith Greg Smith Gina Smith Janice Snyder Jackie K. Snyder Brian and Margo Sparks Dana Spencer Joseph and Reena Spurrier Tom Stevenson and Danielle Scatena Catherine Stevenson Joe Stevenson Eric and Jennifer Stilwell Tyler and Michelle Stocking Michael and Linda Stocking Trent and Cheryl Tanaka Akash Tanwas Diana Tarte Brown Taylor Yuvaraj Thiagarajan and Mahalakshmi Yuvaraj Sunny Thompson Erin Thompson Richard Tillema Justin and Lisa Titi Larry and Kathy Tom Sean and Jaime Tompkins Treadwell Family Ryan and Michele Treffers Charles Tu and Audrey Tedesco Brian Ugie and Christina Briggs Salvador Velasco Erik and April Verbeek Erik and Roberta Vinkhuyzen Lois VrMeer Robert and Alyssa Wagner Timothy and Irene Walker Jonathan Wallace Tesheng Wang and Sujung Kim Scott and Ruth Wang Patrick and Kendall Ward Theresa Ward Kel Whisner and Adriana San Millan de Whisner Craig and Lynn Whittekiend Joseph and Auxilia William David and Megan Williams Richard and Kathryn Williams Richard Williams and Martha Donovan Donovan and Tiffany Williams Sean and Nisanti Wilmot William Wilson and Susan Cardillo-Wilson Rosario and Idania Wong Nathan Wong Charles and Christine Wong Cody Young John and Teresa Zazenski Liang and Jennifer Zhang Kyle and Kelly Zibell
C
Corporations, Foundations, Local Business Support, and Matching Gifts
A Tool Shed Equipment Rental Adventures By The Sea Amenah Designs Amgen Foundation Amour Nailz Aver Family Vineyards Bay Area Discovery Museum Boeschen Vineyards Burke Williams Byington Vineyard & Winery Cactus Lounge Boutique Calera Winery California Passport Tours California Sports Center Camp Fashionista CBRE Central Ag Supply LLC Chabot Space & Science Center Children’s Discovery Museum Church Creek Cellars Clif Family Comedy Sportz Country Rose Cafe Cozi, Inc Creasian Cuisine CuriOdyssey Daily Bagel Cafe DeRose Vineyards Disneyland Resort Drake’s Brewing Company Eden Rift Edna Valley Vineyard Electric Tour Company Escobar Diamonds Fairmont San Jose Fidelity Charitable Fine Arts Museums of SF Fitness Wave NorCal Fun Party Supply & Rental Galileo Camps Gilroy Gardens Glow Googooli Gott’s Roadside Hi5 Produce HomeGuard Incorporated Honda of Morgan Hill J’aime Skin Spa Jonty’s Vietnamese Eatery Josephine’s Bakery Judd’s Hill Winery Kendra Scott La Jolla Shores Hotel La Vie DanSante Winery Lagunitas Brewing Company L’Aventure Winery Lawson’s Bakery Lisa Sesnon Personal Training Mama Mia’s Restaurant Man Crates Marie Callender’s Marine Science Institute
Masana NYC Portrait Artwork MC-Elite Basketball McKahn Family Cellars Mooyah Morgan Hill Athletic Club Music As Language Music In Motion Napa & Sonoma Valley Bike Tours Noah’s Bar & Bistro Omescape Opera San Jose Orange Theory Fitness Paine’s Restaurant Paper Culture PBNJ Boutique Physician’s Skin Solutions Picaboo Pier 39 Planet Granite Platypus Wine Tours Predator’s Archery Refined Dermatology Rosso’s Furniture Rosy’s At The Beach San Francisco MOMA San Jose Giants School of Rock Segway Santa Cruz Tours Sicilia In Bocca Silicon Valley Capital Club Sonoma Raceway Sport Clips St. George Spirits Stars Hollow Travel Strike Brewing Co. Sushi Ichiban Symmetry Designs Symphony Silicon Valley Testarossa Winery The Circle Up Experience The Dailey Method - MH The Grapevine The Jewel Box Jewelers The Table The Walt Disney Family Museum Thermo Fisher Scientific Third Love Thriving Canine Tieks Tina’s Nails Travel Set Go United States Olympic & Paralympic Foundation Universal Maintenance Velasco Group Wafelbakker Anderson Orthodontics Wagly Pet Campus Woodstock Pizza X-Treme Kustom Details Young Art Valley Fair
Donor Spotlight: Pat and Heather Lord, Parents ’25, ’27 For us, philanthropy is a family passion and the chance to spend time together while giving back to local and international causes that mean the most to us. For our children, it’s an opportunity to grow their world, experience cultures, religions, and traditions different than our own while also exploring new interests. Some of our favorite memories have been spent visiting schools around the world, replanting coral reefs, protecting rhinos from poachers, volunteering at the Humane Society of Silicon Valley, and most importantly, bringing our love of service back to Oakwood and our school family. The joy we see in the faces of our children and those we meet along the way, while learning about challenges faced by other communities, is a wonderful learning experience for our daughters. Through volunteering both at Oakwood and in the broader community, our family benefits from lessons of kindness, giving, resilience, and understanding. We see our daughters learning these very lessons as they navigate their time at Oakwood and we’re so blessed they have opportunities to experience excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts. The gift of a well-rounded education is the best thing we can give our children, which is why we support Oakwood as volunteers and philanthropically. Our investment in the School allows us to be present for Sophie and Claire, but also means we are actively present for our community—a community that has always been so welcoming, so generous, so genuinely lovely. A community that has always been so welcoming, so generous, so genuinely lovely. To us, our donations of money and time don’t feel like something to be celebrated. But it is easy to overlook how powerful consistent support can be for a small school like Oakwood. It is truly our privilege to support Oakwood’s fundraising efforts through the Auction, the Fund Run, the Annual Fund, and the Spreading Our Roots campaign. We wholeheartedly believe that Oakwood is a unique and special place worth preserving for future generations, and we’re happy to be counted among the many people who work hard to help it grow and stay true to its roots so that future generations experience the same benefits. Book of Gratitude 2018-2019 Page 11
A Roaring Good Time! What a night for Oakwood! One of our school’s most anticipated events—the Roaring 20th Benefit Dinner Auction—was held on Saturday, November 10, 2018 at the Granada Theatre. The theme was “Roaring 20’s” to signify Oakwood’s 20th Annivesary. The room was abrim with flappers and gangsters coming together to celebrate the true spirit and generosity of the Oakwood community! Co-chairs Julianne Garnett and Dawn Lyle led an amazing team with grace and spirit, all while working tirelessly, ensuring significant success. With exciting live and silent packages, and a spirited Fund-A-Need program, all in support of our Campus Fund, we netted $156,220—the largest amount ever raised at an Oakwood auction and far surpassing our previous event proceeds! We accomplished all of this while bringing the entire community together for an unforgettable event that has already been touted as “the best Oakwood auction ever!” We are grateful to all the parents, staff, grandparents, friends, and businesses who contributed to the success of this event. Thank you!
Page 12 Oakwood School
Volunteer Spotlight: Julianne Garnett, P ’25, ’27, ’31 and Dawn Lyle, P ’27, ’29, ’32 Working together, along with an incredible committee of dedicated parent volunteers and Oakwood staff, to make the Roaring 20th auction a success was wonderful. It really was an unforgettable evening of friendship and fundraising. It also was not our first foray into volunteering at Oakwood. Both of us are mom to three kiddos, and we each came to Oakwood when our eldest child was entering kindergarten, our second-born entering preschool, and our youngest child was an infant in our arms (Julianne in 2012 and Dawn in 2014). From the time our families became part of the Oakwood family, we’ve stepped up to help however we can, whether that meant signing up via UpToUs to drop off items for a party or volunteering our time to plan and work at an event. Dawn first started volunteering at Oakwood by playing phonics games with kindergarteners in the classroom and reading books to preschoolers during library time. Julianne jumped right in by attending PSA meetings and helping at the big events. Our professional backgrounds also have helped us create and enhance unique experiences for Oakwood’s
students and staff. Julianne, a professional chef, has catered amazing events for staff appreciation. Dawn, a mechanical engineer, coaches after-school robotics and works to augment STEM at Oakwood. Volunteering our personal time and efforts to support the students, teachers, and staff at our children’s school is a priority for each of us. We both have served on the PSA board as division coordinators and chaired or served on the committee of innumerable events. From individual classroom support, to grade-level activities, to division-specific celebrations, to school-wide events, there are so many opportunities to be involved and to help make Oakwood even more awesome. Through volunteering, we get the chance to enhance an experience for all the kids (not just our own) and firsthand see and share in their excitement. Working together with other parents has led us to lasting and treasured friendships. Volunteering at Oakwood occupies a large spot in each of our hearts and we are grateful for the opportunity to be able to volunteer for such a bighearted community.
Book of Gratitude 2018-2019 Page 13
2019 Fund Run The annual Oakwood Fund Run was a big success! On Friday, April 19, 2019, Oakwood students embraced the challenge and raised a grand total of $210,795, which included a generous match. Thanks to your dedication and generosity, Oakwood School raised more for this year’s Fund Run than ever before! We wish to extend our sincerest gratitude to each one of you who donated, posted on social media, shared messages, videos, and photos with your friends and family, and who were our biggest cheerleaders as we raced to raise $100,000 and unlock the Christopher Family’s generous $100,000 challenge match donation. Our thanks also to the many parent volunteers who made our 2019 Oakwood Fund Run a smashing success this year. Extra special thanks go to our chairperson, Kristine Acquistapace, who took the lead and created a fun event for all of our students. Without her support and dedicated volunteerism, this event would not have been as organized or successful as it was. We love to see your smiling faces on campus and showing our kids what the true meaning of philanthropy is. You truly make an impact on our school and we are forever grateful! We would also like to thank the school’s Fund Run founder, Penny Ciraulo, for 20 years of dedicated service to Oakwood and congratulate her on her retirement. We are immensely grateful for all the time, energy, and love she poured into our school throughout her years as a teacher and our community development director!
Page 14 Oakwood School
Donor Spotlight: Bill and Heather Christopher, Parents ’32, ’34 In the short time we’ve been part of the Oakwood community, we’ve seen our daughter’s confidence and communication skills thrive. Between the highly-qualified teachers, small class sizes, and personalized curriculum, it’s been a pleasure to watch Presley flourish in her first years of school. Her dedicated teachers have taken the time to understand her strengths, challenges, and interests which have impacted her educational growth immensely. For us, Oakwood is more than a school. It is our community, and supporting it in a meaningful way each year is a priority for us. We were happy to participate this past year in the form of a $100,000 Challenge Match for the 2019 Fund Run. It made our family proud to inspire momentum behind this event and witness so many Oakwood families join us in the important fundraising efforts Oakwood is working on as they continue with the campus expansion. In a small school like ours, every family’s participation truly makes an impact and we were honored to play a role this year. The 2019 Fund Run was Oakwood’s most successful ever and we thank all the families who partnered with us to achieve this result. We look forward to many more years of continued achievements and success during all of our children’s journeys at Oakwood School.
2018-2019 Parent Giving by Grade Parent Participation by Grade P JrK K 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Total Participation 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Preschool
Jr. Kindergarten
54.35% Participation Class of 2033
66.67% Participation Class of 2032
Rashid and Marjan Bahrainy Paul and Stephanie Barton Vishal Bathija and Rina Sutaria Sam and Lauren Benedict Ben and Staci Betancourt Nicholas and Stacy Cintas Jordan and Samantha Cole Jay Couch and Myrna Robles Couch Phil and Kelli Elizondo James and Vanessa Erickson Carlos Garcia Alvarado and Johnna Lee-Garcia Brad and Michelle Hannula Tom and Joleen Hensley Rob and Lindsay Hessling Dan and Kristina Hicklin Kris and Cristina Lambrechts Luis and Rosa Moya James and Jennifer Ogawa Steve and Jaime Payne Torsten and Angela Reinert Johnny and Marjan Sacil Michael and Amanda Serrano Ryan and Michele Treffers Joe and Viridiana Velasco Charles and Christine Wong John and Teresa Zazenski Kyle and Kelly Zibell
Mark and Kristine Acquistapace Matt and Stephanie Behan Travis and Colleen Blanchard Bill and Heather Christopher Jason and Sylvia Christopher Jay Couch and Myrna Robles Couch Aeron and Gin Dietz Catalin and Elena Gidea Michael and Annie Helvey Trevor and Jessica Hendrickson Derek and Emily Jensen Rome Johnson and Jeanne Mickey Michael and Dawn Lyle Chris and Shawna Matz Jeff Ota and Stephanie Neustadter Ritesh and Bina Patel Andy and Chanat Praserthdam Jude and Sarah Saleet Donovan and Kimberly Shiveley Charles Tu and Beth Tedesco Donovan and Tiffany Williams Yuvaraj Thiagarajan and Mahalakshmi Yuvaraj
Kindergarten
Tyler and Michelle Stocking Justin and Lisa Titi
80% Participation Class of 2031 Derek and Angie Banks Kevin Beilmann and Misty McNay-Beilmann Lonnie and Melissa Bowers Jordan and Samantha Cole Dan Cote and Karin Reak Dantley and Courtney Davis Phil and Kelli Elizondo Chris and Karla Fenton Mike and Ethyn Frugoli Dave and Julianne Garnett Giacalone Family Maciek Gudrymowicz and Mara Ivan Dan and Kristina Hicklin Stephen and Bella Ireland Elena Kracht Kris and Cristina Lambrechts Cesar Madrueno and Yesenia Castillo Matt and Heather Morgan James and Kirstin Nagy Julie and Art Pak John and Janine Pelosi Jeff and Tami Piper Christopher and Ashley Reichow Jay and Kathi Robinson Tyler and Michelle Stocking Rob and Alyssa Wagner Charles and Christine Wong Rosario and Idania Wong
2nd Grade 79.41% Participation Class of 2029
1st Grade
Derek and Angie Banks Ben and Sara Bascom Ben and Staci Betancourt Derek and Lorraine Burgstrom Sean and Tashana Burke Catalin and Elena Gidea Harman Gill and Poonam Dhaliwal John and Anna Gorski Rudy and Dawn Hofmeister Steve and Helen Holter William and Jayme Kabelac Mehmetcan and Tugce Karahan Nick and Jamie Lee Michael and Dawn Lyle Emmanuel and Emily Mendoza Matt and Heather Morgan Mahesh Nagarajan and Kamala Hariharan Mike and Cary Neunzig Paul and Sandra Perryman Andy and Mary Prunicki Jay and Kathi Robinson Adam and Christy Samarel Shachar and Emily Shem-Tov Joe and Viridiana Velasco Erik and April Verbeek Scott and Ruth Wang David and Megan Williams Joe and Tanaya Williams
90.91% Participation Class of 2030
3rd Grade
Issac and Jayme Abernethy Nelson and Evelyn Bornasal Sean and Tashana Burke Alex and Rebecca Cabrera Ian and Alisa Clawson Tom Deckowski and Claudia Tseng Bryan and Stephanie Fernandez Chris and Siutaisa Fleizach Damon and Carla Focaracci Melany Forsgren Ryan and Melissa Goulart Brandon and Jenine Greenley Rob and Lindsay Hessling Dallas and Kimberlee Jensen Jeff Kasper and April Greene Chris and Shawna Matz John and Shaneen Monaco JT Nguyen and Cindy Phan Nick and Ashley Paradiso Umashankar Parida and Durga Mahalik Roshan Perera and Angie Colford Carlos and Heather Perez Jozef and Barbara Plata Jose and Elizabeth Rojo Ayda and Amir Saffarian Adam and Christy Samarel
100% Participation Class of 2028 Dan and Laurie Armino Rashid and Marjan Bahrainy Ryan and Megan Christian Tony and Ursula DeShaw Damon and Carla Focaracci Richard and Tiffany Fuller Eric and Melissa Gerber Giacalone Family Rob and Lindsay Hessling Karl and Wendy Sue Kissa Vince and Ana La Corte Emmanuel and Emily Mendoza Jeff Ota and Stephanie Neustadter Nick and Terri Possley Christopher and Ashley Reichow Aaron and Shi Riggins Tyler and Michelle Stocking Justin and Lisa Titi Rob and Alyssa Wagner Patrick and Kendall Ward Ryoji Watanabe and Lily Li Rosario and Idania Wong
Book of Gratitude 2018-2019 Page 15
2018-2019 Parent Giving by Grade (continued) 4th Grade 80.65% Participation Class of 2027 Derek and Angie Banks Crystal Brandhorst Steve Caspary and Robin Millard Ian and Alisa Clawson Steven and Helen Fieler Chris and Siutaisa Fleizach Dave and Julianne Garnett Tracey Givens John and Anna Gorski Ryan and Melissa Goulart Brandon and Jenine Greenley Dallas and Kimberlee Jensen Brett and Nicole Johnson Rob Johnson and Karen Rowland-Johnson Daniel and Jennifer Kim Heidi Kobata Alan and Jennifer Laabs Michael and Dawn Lyle Ian and Christina Nyquist John and Shelly Paiva Nick and Ashley Paradiso Vincente and Jennifer Paz Paul and Sandra Perryman Andy and Chanat Praserthdam Mike and Hanane Stanghellini Joe and Tanaya Williams
5th Grade 61.90% Participation Class of 2026 Chris and Nicole Bosso Tracy and Melissa Call Chad and Joy Dvorak Bryan and Stephanie Fernandez Rich and Aimee Fiorito Chris and Vicky Foland Melany Forsgren Richard and Tiffany Fuller Todd and Mirka Gomes Bessy Kanazawa Ryan Kanazawa Tony and Melissa Marquez Jeff and Tami Piper Shachar and Emily Shem-Tov
6th Grade 74.42% Participation Class of 2025 Steve and Erin Atkinson Ray and Sarah Blanchard Todd and Cathy Broch Brandon and Tere Casey Mandeep and Parveen Dhillon Stephane and Jill Drouin Dave and Julianne Garnett Alberto and Jenn Gastelum Ron and Wendy Gong Leticia Guizar Paul and Sabina Gutierrez Steve and Helen Holter Alicia Juarez Bessy Kanazawa
Page 16 Oakwood School
Ryan Kanazawa Frank and Lisa King Peter and Melia LeCompte Paul Lerma and Mary Lineen Pat Lord and Heather Shermer Tony and Melissa Marquez Hui Sok and Charlynne Moon Erik and Vanet Murawsky Ian and Christina Nyquist Devin Pace Suzanne Pace Steve and Jaime Payne Chris and Melissa Sorci Brian and Margo Sparks Joe and Reena Spurrier Eric and Jennifer Stilwell Tesheng Wang and Sujung Kim Sean and Nisanti Wilmot Kel Whisner and Adriana San Millan de Whisner
7th Grade 81.08% Participation Class of 2024 Travis and Colleen Blanchard Ray and Sarah Blanchard Chris and Nicole Bosso Ian and Alisa Clawson Pat and Alison Comerford Prasanta Dash and Jayashree Mishra Anton and Theresa Davydov Tony and Ursula DeShaw Jim and Janine Forman Todd and Mirka Gomes Maury and Rachelle Harwood Rafael Insignares and Lucia Calonje Dallas and Kimberlee Jensen Jonathan Johnson and Jenna Kammann Daniel and Jennifer Kim Michiel and Claudia Kouwenhoven Jason Lara and Mia Flores Phil and Jen Laws Kevin Le and Chi Diep Gerv and Kristina Minoza John and Shaneen Monaco Devin Pace Suzanne Pace Noah and Heather Price Mark Rogers and Joan Hammel Alex and Veronica Salvatti Gordon and Christine Shales Mike and Hanane Stanghellini Tom Stevenson and Danielle Scatena John and Kim Thornton David and Jennifer Zhang Joe Zhao and Angela Chen
8th Grade
10th Grade
75.61% Participation Class of 2023
68.97% Participation Class of 2021
David and Monique Anthus Danny and Maria Bautista Philip and Jacqueline Bogosian Todd and Cathy Broch Chad and Joy Dvorak Rich and Aimee Fiorito Richard and Tiffany Fuller Michelle Goldman Kevin and Jennifer Hwang Amir and Wajeeha Khan Soren and Leah Koldewyn Curren Krishnan Peter and Melia LeCompte Dan Lelescu and Ana Lelelscu Jason Leong and Liana Kishi Pat Lord and Heather Shermer Francesca MacNaughton Ferdinand and Kathy Manalili Peter and Laura Moosman Andy and Mary Prunicki Betsey Reid Neeraj and Bala Sahejpal Atul and Sucheta Singh Brian and Margo Sparks Eric and Jennifer Stilwell Mark and Beth Striebeck Trent and Cheryl Tanaka Subramaniam Vinod and Renoo Nathan Joseph and Auxilia William Sean and Nisanti Wilmot Anson Yang
Ygal and Ania Arbel Carl and Diana Borsody Shahrokh and Ramak Daijavad Alan Firpo and Rhinda Bal Dave and Kelli Frazer Richard and Tiffany Fuller Steve and Helen Holter Deron and Lisa Jackson Amir and Wajeeha Khan Shawn and Teri Kim Michiel and Claudia Kouwenhoven Mike and Michelle Mortensen Rodney and Karen Park Jitesh and Kinjal Patel Andy and Mary Prunicki Ed and Julie Sattler Sean and Jaime Tompkins Subramaniam Vinod and Renoo Nathan Steve and Lilly Weissinger
9th Grade 76.47% Participation Class of 2022 Karen Astrachan Brinda Balagopal and Kanchan Dilip Ken and Cindy Buciak Karen Burback Brandon and Tere Casey Jason and Wendy Chamberlain Ted Chin and Helen Rhee Victor and Tamila D’Elia Mandeep and Parveen Dhillon Alberto and Jenn Gastelum Randy Huang and Vivian Chiu Michael and Gillian Kendall Kameron and Joy Khojasteh Frank and Lisa King Jeff Kreulen and Francyne Andria John Lark and Melissa O’Malley Thanh and Anne Nguyen Bob and Tiffany Nguyen Noah and Heather Price Tom and Kim Purtell Eric and Pearl Richardson Arnaldo and Brenda Roldan Tom and Diane Selby Frank Shi and Sandra Li Chris and Melissa Sorci Jianmin Wei and Lingying Hu Xinjiong Xu and Annie Ni
11th Grade 37.50% Participation Class of 2020 Tom and Renee Afflixio Danny and Maria Bautista Brian and Dana Bruning Ken and Cindy Buciak Ted Chin and Helen Rhee Alberto and Jenn Gastelum Jen Hagen Steven and Sandra Lowe Francesca MacNaughton Luis and Rosa Moya Tan and Christine Nguyen Tim and Irene Walker
12th Grade 53.57% Participation Class of 2019 Danny and Maria Bautista Toby and Micaela Buschini Jim Chapman and Brenda Black Victor and Tamila D’Elia Michelle Goldman Shawn and Teri Kim Xander Li and Helen Shi Ferdinand and Kathy Manalili John and Shaneen Monaco Peter and Laura Moosman Mike and Michelle Mortensen Arthur Rudin and Susan Braun Tom and Diane Selby Joe Zhao and Angela Chen
Celebrating with our Grandparents and Special Friends! On May 2 and 3, Oakwood School hosted beloved grandparents and special friends who traveled from near and far to learn more about the Oakwood School experience firsthand. Grandparent Christine Paradiso and parent Ashley Paradiso to three current Oakwood students shared their time and talent as our Grandparents’ Day Co-Chairs this year and we are so thankful for their dedication to our community as we expanded this event to our entire lower school this year. All lower school students looked forward to sharing some of their accomplishments with pride and excitement. In the gym, grandparents and special friends also enjoyed the magnificent Spring Art Show. With delicious refreshments provided by parents, spring concert performances by students from 1st through 5th grades, classroom visits, student-led tours, and photo opportunities galore around campus all taking place in one morning, there was a very festive atmosphere creating wonderful memories for both our students and our cherished Oakwood School extended family! We can’t wait to show off our expanded campus at this year’s Grandparents’ and Special Friends’ Day on Friday, May 1, 2020!
Volunteer Spotlight: Nick and Ashley Paradiso, Parents ’27, ’27, ’30 Our family’s association with Oakwood School began in the fall of 2012 while looking for a pre-school to start our twin daughters’ education. The campus atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, and the teachers and administrative staff seemed friendly and knowledgeable. However, once the school year started it became apparent that the approach to education at Oakwood was much more than learning facts and repeating them back on a test. There were going to be all sorts of projects and special days to present the information being studied in class in different ways to reinforce and enrich the overall learning experience. It’s these special events where the Oakwood staff needs volunteers to make them a success. Throughout the past seven years we have taken the opportunity to volunteer at many different events. We have been part of the Welcoming Committee, ECE library days, Grandparents’ and Special Friends’ Day, Immigration Day, Renaissance Day, ECE End of Year Celebration, Lower School Blast of Fun, and several field trips throughout the years. Grandpa and Grandma have also gotten involved with some of these events, and Grandma helps Mrs. Chamberlain in the library once a week. Volunteering our time at Oakwood gives us a first-hand look at all the hard work, time, and dedication the school puts toward the students. You see how awesome the students and faculty are and how well they communicate and work together. It’s also just a lot of fun. You can’t go wrong helping out at the end of the year Blast of Fun. Who wouldn’t want to hang out and help a bunch of happy, respectful, fun-loving group of kids to celebrate the end of the school year. Volunteering is also our way to give a little back to the school and show that we appreciate all that the teachers and faculty do for our children. Although the time we volunteer pales in comparison to the time and effort put in by them, it allows us to do what we can and be part of a community that creates strong, confident students. Book of Gratitude 2018-2019 Page 17
2018-2019 Oak Leaf Society Oakwood’s Oak Leaf Society recognizes the deep-rooted donor loyalty within our school community. Members of this society set a philanthropic example for fellow parents, grandparents, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends, and play a vital role in ensuring that Oakwood continues to thrive year after year. The longer you give, the more enduring the impact of your support! The Oak Leaf Society celebrates donors who make annual gifts for five or more consecutive years. Consecutive years of giving are counted by fiscal year, which runs from July 1 to June 30. In honor of this important commitment, members receive special recognition in the annual Book of Gratitude. Thank you to the following donors who have generously shown their support of Oakwood each of the last five fiscal years.
Oak Leaf Society Tom and Renee Afflixio David and Monique Anthus Ygal and Anna Arbel Geoffrey and Karen Arnold Rashid and Marjan Bahrainy Derek and Angie Banks Diane Berney Isaac Berniker Carl and Diana Borsody Chris and Nicole Bosso Todd and Cathy Broch Charles and Margaret Burback Karen Burback Tracy and Melissa Call Ted Chin and Helen Rhee Gene and Penny Ciraulo Doug and Penny Conn Patty Crone Shahrokh and Ramak Daijavad Mike Elwell David and Ana Fajnor Steven and Helen Fieler Richard and Sandy Fiorito James and Janine Forman Mike Gallagher Nancy Gallo Alberto and Jennifer Gastelum Paul and Jaime Giacalone Michelle Goldman John and Anna Gorski Jennifer Hagen John Hansen Ted and Michelle Helvey Stephen and Helen Holter Brett and Nicole Johnson Alicia Juarez Mehmetcan and Tugce Karahan Michael and Gillian Kendall Kameron and Joy Khojasteh Frank and Lisa King
Page 18 Oakwood School
Heidi Kobata Curren Krishnan Alan and Jennifer Laabs Peter and Melia LeCompte Gretchen Lee Xu Li and Hong Shi Michael and Dawn Lyle Ralph and Sue Lyle Ferdinand and Kathy Manalili Beverly Mercurio Craig and Sue Millard Charles and Jill Miller John and Shaneen Monaco Peter and Laura Moosman Frank and Christine Paradiso Nick and Ashley Paradiso Rodney and Karen Park Roshan Perera and Angela Colford Andy and Chanat Praserthdam Leonard and Stephanie Procker Vic and Carolyn Riches Arnaldo and Brenda Roldan Gary Rosyski and Shawna Gordon Ed and Julie Sattler Tom and Diane Selby Shachar and Emily Shem-Tov Chris and Melissa Sorci Tom Stevenson and Danielle Scatena Justin and Lisa Titi Joe and Viridiana Velasco Robert and Alyssa Wagner Steve and Lilly Weissinger Joseph and Tanaya Williams David and Megan Williams Charles and Christine Wong
Donor Spotlight: Steve and Lilly Weissinger, Parents ’15, ’21 Our family began attending Oakwood in 2012 when our eldest daughter, Kevin, was beginning high school and our youngest, Sophia, was going into third grade. What impressed us at the Open House was the mission statement: discovering the gifts in every child. We knew Kevin was bright and special, but were worried she would get lost in our local public school a mile from our house. To fit the needs of our children, we decided to travel 25 miles each morning and afternoon to Oakwood. It was the right decision for our family. The teachers and staff were encouraging and patient with Kevin and Sophia. Though the school is college prep, we were more interested in having our daughters enjoy school, become lifetime learners, and finding passions for a career path. With the smaller class sizes, the teachers are able to take a personal interest in the students, which made all the difference for Kevin and Sophia. As parents, we have enjoyed volunteering at many events at Oakwood. We feel the importance of our contribution in building a community that supports our children to make the world a better place. Through volunteering, we have come to know the other parents so that we can learn from and support each other and our Oakwoodians. Volunteering at Oakwood has also allowed us to meet the other students and teachers our children have been spending time with, helping to build connections. Our family looks forward to seeing the completion of the Spreading Our Roots Campaign. We cannot wait to see Sophia play basketball and volleyball in the new gym and perform on the new stage, and Sophia is certainly enjoying the new classrooms. Oakwood is a place that fosters a passion for learning, while encouraging and supporting its students to do their best. It is a community our family is proud to be a part of and support.
20th Anniversary Celebration This was a momentous year for Oakwood School and we enjoyed celebrating our 20th Anniversary with many events during 2018-2019. We hope that you were able to join us at one of the events to celebrate this milestone. In addition to celebrating Oakwood’s 20th Birthday with a cupcake celebration for all our students in August, we also formed into a “20” on the field for a memorable photo opportunity! In May, Oakwood Alumni and their parents from the classes of 2009 through 2018 were invited to celebrate with a 20th Anniversary Reunion Celebration.
Alumni Spotlight: Raina Poria, Alum ’12 My Oakwood experience truly shaped my future by allowing me to engage in opportunities I never would have considered. These opportunities, such as backstage drama, volunteer programs, and tennis, allowed me to develop key communication experience that translates well to the industry I am in. Currently I work in pricing for a biotech company and with that comes the responsibility to explain the complexity of the landscape to various individuals inside and outside of the pharmaceutical industry. The experiences I had at Oakwood propelled me to be someone who can communicate the biotech story. I believe it is important to continue supporting Oakwood’s growth, because I received such a unique high school experience and I want that for more kids on a larger scale. It is extremely exciting to see the new Liberal Arts Building and Gymnasium as now Oakwood high school students can continue their arts and sports with facilities that are ideal for their learning. Events that I have been able to participate in as an alumna include alumni panels to talk to juniors and seniors about college and reunions where I have been able to reconnect with many of the students I haven’t seen in years. It is great going to these events and seeing where many of my friends have landed in their careers. Book of Gratitude 2018-2019 Page 19
Investing in Our Campus Last year, the Oakwood community came together in meaningful and positive ways to support our efforts in Spreading Our Roots. Although the buildings are nearing completion, many opportunities are still available to participate, and we encourage each family to consider how they can contribute as we move closer to finishing these important additions to our campus. Our Annual Fund 100-Day Campaign launched in September, so please keep in mind the ways your family can support our fundraising efforts. For 21 years, Oakwood has built a powerful legacy of providing rich opportunities for our students to grow individually and feel a deep sense of belonging as part of an inclusive community. Where we stand today was built in large part by the generosity of Oakwood families and friends who came before you, and we hope that we can count on every one of you to help us propel that legacy forward. Thank you to the following families who have stepped up as philanthropic leaders in our community and named spaces both in the new campus additions and in existing classrooms, made possible through our campaign efforts. There are still naming opportunities available. Please contact giving@oakwoodway.org if you are interested in learning more. Gwendolyn Riches Liberal Arts Center: Christopher Family Student Center Shem-Tov Family Green Room Sattler Family Digital Arts Studio
Upper School Athletic Center: Giacalone Family Weight Room Sattler Family Cardio Room Sattler Family Bleachers
Existing Campus Spaces:
Thornton Family Middle School Science Lab
Campaign Milestones
Spreading Our Roots Campaign Launch & Groundbreaking Ceremony May 10, 2018
Student Campaign Info Sessions with Mrs. Helvey October 2018
Beam Signing September 14, 2018
Page 20 Oakwood School
Roaring 20th Auction supporting the Campus Fund November 10, 2018
Campaign Leadership Team Hard Hat Tour October 12, 2018
Fundraising at Oakwood is an all-in effort. Each year, we strive for 100% participation from current parents, faculty and staff, and our board. From all of us at Oakwood, thank you to those who joined us in making a donation in support of the school in 2018-2019!
Leadership Circle Reception October 3, 2019
Fund Run supporting the Campus Fund April 20, 2019
Campaign Reception & Tour April 4, 2019
Gwendolyn Riches Liberal Arts Center Grand Opening August 19, 2019
Upper School Athletic Center Grand Opening November 2019
Oakwood Theatre Grand Opening Performance October 25, 2019
Book of Gratitude 2018-2019 Page 21
Support Oakwood School through Matching and Planned Gifts Many Oakwood families and their friends work for companies that offer a matching gift program. These corporate philanthropy programs vary from company to company, but generally they will match some portion of their employees’ donations to qualified charitable institutions such as schools. As an accredited school and a not-for-profit public benefit corporation, Oakwood qualifies for nearly every corporate matching program. Oakwood relies on philanthropic giving from parents and the wider community, and students benefit from gifts large and small. By taking
Gifts of Real Estate or Appreciated Property Many donors find it attractive to give appreciated property—homes, other types of real estate, businesses, personal property, etc.—because of the potential tax benefits.
advantage of your corporate matching gift program, you can maximize the value of your gift at no additional cost. In addition to gifts of cash or securities, there are a variety of other gift vehicles that enable donors to make larger gifts than would otherwise be possible. Such gifts often generate substantial tax savings and can generate increased income as well. Two options are listed below, but please contact the Development Office at giving@oakwoodway.org to discuss your specific plans.
Bequests The simplest way for donors to arrange for a gift from their estate is to include a bequest provision to Oakwood School in their wills.
Upcoming Events Annual Fund 100 Day Campaign September 23-December 31, 2019
International Festival March 6, 2020
2019 Online Auction October 25-November 8, 2019 www.oakwoodauction.org
Fund Run March 20, 2020
Thanks and Giving Celebration November 22, 2019 Alumnae Basketball Game December 21, 2019 Freedom Festival February 14, 2020
Page 22 Oakwood School
Grandparents’ & Special Friends’ Day May 1, 2020 High School Graduation May 27, 2020 Middle School Promotion May 28, 2020
Annual Fund This year, we have revamped our Annual Fund program and introducing a 100 Day Campaign! It is our hope that we will achieve 100% participation from parents, staff, and our board in 100 days. Our efforts will culminate on December 31st. You may pledge now and pay through June 30, 2020. Our focus again this year will be on the Campus Fund, which enables us to continue the ongoing efforts in support of our campus expansion. Though we have come so far in a short period of time with the completion of the Gwendolyn Riches Liberal Arts Center, there is still work to be done on our new Upper School Athletic Center. The Annual Fund is the heart of the school’s fundraising efforts in which every family is asked to provide an annual donation to the school.
“
Our daughter’s dedicated teachers have taken the time to understand her strengths, challenges, and interests which have impacted her educational growth immensely. —Oakwood parent
”
The Annual Fund is made up of the following designations: ➤ Campus Fund is designated for the enhancement and expansion of the Oakwood campus. ➤ Science & Technology Fund is used to strengthen and expand the school’s technology and science resources. ➤ Enrichment Fund is used to grow the library and enhance the school’s drama and enrichment programs.
Don’t delay – make your Annual Fund gift today! Help support our 2019-2020 Annual Fund 100 Day Campaign! We need your help to achieve 100% participation in 100 days!
➤ Faculty Fund is used to support faculty development and enhance faculty compensation. ➤ Scholarship Fund is used to expand and strengthen the school community by providing merit-based scholarships to deserving students. Visit oakwoodway.org/annualfund to learn more and make your gift or pledge today. Thank you for your support!
Visit www.oakwoodway.org/annualfund to learn more! Book of Gratitude 2018-2019 Page 23
NON PROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID OMSI
105 John Wilson Way Morgan Hill, CA 95037
Thank You for Supporting Oakwood!
Connect with Oakwood! www.oakwoodway.org