Parents and staff consistently refer to Oakwood as “the best-kept secret in Glen Burnie.” The sense of caring and compassion that has been fostered here, as well as the dedication to meeting the individual needs of students, has translated into a remarkable narrowing of the achievement gap and academic excellence for all. In class, students help one another, soothe each other, and share classroom materials. Teachers help children in such seamless and natural ways that no child is singled out for being “special.” Oakwood staff finds strategies that suit every student, and they have devised a consistent set of expectations for student behavior throughout the building. Parents feel well informed and welcome in the school and are involved in character education leadership. When asked about how the school has made such remarkable academic gains, former principal Nancy Knouse responds: “Everybody in this building is working for kids. Nobody ever gives up on any child.”

Outreach: During their 2011-12 award year, Oakwood presented their character journey to approximately 300 educators at a state-level awards ceremony and conference. Oakwood was also featured in a video about Core Essentials.

Printer Friendly