School Traditions
With more than a 60-year history, Oakland honors several long-standing traditions that are an important part of the Oakland experience for both staff and students.
Fall and Winter
Winter School
Because students also attend Oakland for five weeks each summer, we call the regular school year, from September to May, Winter School. Students get time off for Thanksgiving recess, winter holiday, and spring vacation and enjoy four to six weeks off before and after Summer Camp.
OAKTOBER FEST
Inspired by our need to stay on grounds and have limited visitors during the pandemic, “Oaktoberfest” was created as a new tradition. The whole month of October is filled with special activities including special meals and treats, pumpkin carving, fall decorating, an afternoon of relays and carnival-type fun, dress-up events, and so much more. Although “Oaktoberfest” was created to make some of the best memories in one of the worst years, this is a fun and festive tradition that will continue year after year.
Thanksgiving Gathering
Students and staff gather at the historic Union Mills Church next to campus to celebrate our blessings. The ceremony offers a point of reflection and the opportunity to express all for which we are thankful.
Horse Holiday
An Oakland tradition for decades, Horse Holiday honors our equine friends each December for their work and dedication to the school. Dressed in festive holiday attire, horses and riders parade from the barn to the playing field where a holiday tree adorned with carrots and apples awaits.
Spring
Valentine’s Day Lunch
Oakland students demonstrate love for their parents with a special lunch on Valentine’s Day. A memorable experience for all, the lunch celebrates the one-of-a-kind connection between parents and children.
Caught Being Good
During the entire month of March, when students traditionally need a little pick-me-up, Oakland faculty and staff distribute tickets to students when they are caught being good. Children save tickets to buy items in our CBG Store such as toys, jewelry, games, models, and more. The most prized purchases, though, are the special on- and off-grounds activities offered by staff members.
Summer
Movies Under the Stars
Every Friday night during camp, summer boarders gather on the tennis courts with their sleeping bags to enjoy a family-friendly movie in the great outdoors.
Our Bell and Flag
Following tradition from the last 60 years, we ring our old-fashioned bell between classes and gather around the flagpole each morning.
The No-Talent Show
On the day before mid-summer break, our staff puts on a variety of acts for the students, showcasing their various “talents” in this fun and light-hearted show.
Graduation
At the end of summer, students deemed ready to transition from Oakland are each honored by an individual speech from a teacher of his or her choice. This rewarding and emotional ceremony signals an important milestone in a student’s academic journey, serving also as inspiration for current students and families.
Year-Round
Recognition Banquets
Both the regular school year and summer session conclude with a special recognition banquet where students are acknowledged for their academic and social achievements.
Newsletter
Since our founding, Oakland has believed in strong, open communication between parents and the school. Published via a weekly email, our Friday News shares a review of the week as well as announcements, upcoming events at Oakland and in the Charlottesville area, and next week’s dining menu.
Community Service
Giving back has been an important part of Oakland’s history since our founding. Today, students of all ages learn about the challenges of our neighbors, both locally and abroad, as part of their curriculum, and the entire school comes together for both on- and off-campus service projects throughout the year.
