Principals Message

 
Photo of Mrs. Ballesteros
 

Wolfpack Families,

Welcome to the 2021-22 school year! The Oka staff and I are very excited to begin a year filled with new beginnings, adventures, and opportunities to learn and grow. Oka is a wonderful school with outstanding students, staff, and families. Our philosophy is to educate the mind and the heart of ALL children. We strive to understand our students’ individual strengths, so we may build a program that promotes problem-solving and critical thinking skills, collaboration, creativity, independence, and a love of learning. Our standards-based lessons focus on hands-on, inquiry-based instruction, collaboration, and tools of technology to enhance student learning.

Oka teachers and staff work as a collaborative team, always committed to the success of all children and holding high expectations for their academic achievement and social/emotional growth. We believe that every child can be successful and that providing a quality education for our children is not an individual task but a TEAM effort from the school and the home. Together, we can provide the opportunities, support, and positive environment that will allow our students to thrive and achieve to the best of their abilities.

The past year presented our families and community with a variety of challenges and unique opportunities to learn and grow. I am extremely proud of the support, patience, and perseverance that were displayed throughout this challenging time. We will begin the 2021-22 school year in a Traditional Model adhering to current guidance. As guidelines change, we will be flexible in adapting them and proactive in communicating this information to you.  I am confident that together we will continue to build upon our positive school culture and advocate for the unique needs, talents, and gifts of each of our students. 

 I consider it a true privilege and blessing to serve as the Principal of Oka and I pledge my commitment to keep your children safe, loved, engaged, and supported throughout the year. I look forward to working with you to make a positive impact on the lives of our children.

  Go Wolfpack!

 Warmly,

 Julie Ballesteros

Principal

 

'Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education.” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.