Mark and Ajanta started at Oakwood in 2019 in Junior Kindergarten. When we were ready to move the kids from their Montessori school in San Jose, where we reside, we had several options, but the choice to go to Oakwood has proven to be the best decision we’ve made.
When we arrived on campus for an Open House tour in the Spring of 2019, Tanu and I chatted with Christine Shales about various aspects of the school. When we mentioned that we live in the Silver Creek area of San Jose, a woman behind us overhearing our conversation mentioned that she lived in the same area as well. She introduced herself as the late Heather Morgan, mother to Noah and Eli. Heather offered to meet with us for coffee to answer any questions we might have regarding Oakwood. We took her up on her generous offer the same week, and she was instrumental in encouraging us to select Oakwood.
While exploring private schools in the area, one of the key requirements for us was that the schools not only have excellent academic programs, but were invested in the arts and overall development of the child. As we’ve seen firsthand, Oakwood has a wonderful theater, music and art program.
Another requirement we had was that there be schooling through the 12th grade, so that the friendships that the kids made would be lifelong. We love the big buddy program which gives the kids the confidence to communicate with older kids, and on the flip side, shows the older kids compassion towards the youngsters. Ajanta in particular loved interacting with her big buddies, and brought home stories about their times together.
I’ve been fortunate to be able to donate time to Oakwood for the last four school years. Helping out at the hot lunch counter has been a very positive experience. From not even knowing all of our children’s classmates, to now knowing over 100 of the kids’ names in various classes, I feel like I’m involved at a much higher level in the goings-on of the school. I’ve also enjoyed volunteering on the PSA board for the last couple of years as Treasurer, and getting to interact with the other parents that do the same. Finally, being able to volunteer on the kids’ school trips has been nothing but positive.
In addition to donating my time, Tanu and I feel strongly about giving back financially as well. Knowing that other students or programs have benefited from donations is rewarding. Oakwood has proven itself as a very worthy recipient of philanthropic efforts.
We definitely feel lucky to be part of the Oakwood family. We have met some wonderful parents who we now call friends. We would attribute a significant credit for joining to the late Heather Morgan (Noah & Eli’s mom) who took the time to tell us all about Oakwood’s way of life for her kids.
Jeff and Tanu Rosen P ’33, ’33
