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LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
A message from Suzanne McCanles
Welcome to the inaugural issue of the redesigned Roots publication! In the past, Roots has been our annual report publication. While it still will include that in the fall, it will be hitting your inbox three times a year: once in the fall, once in the winter and will include our state of the school, and then in the spring for a wrap-up of the school year You’ll find a lot of great alumni updates in each issue, including where our alums are attending school and what great accomplishments they are making in the career world! In addition you’ll read about what’s happening on campus with students and faculty We hope you enjoy it! Be sure to drop me a line and let us know what you’d like to see more of in upcoming issues
As this includes our annual report, I want to touch on our finances and fundraising for the 2023-24 school year The Advancement Team made great strides during the year in regards to development and fundraising. We focused on education within our community answering questions such as: Why does Oakhill have to fundraise? Why is the Mighty Oak Fund important? What is the Welcome Project? Why doesn’t tuition cover what it costs to balance the budget? Why is tuition more than neighboring parochial schools? What is an Independent Private School and how is it different from other private schools?
Our overall theme for the school year “The Oakhill Vibes-we are so Golden” could be felt throughout our messaging and events There is a certain feel at Oakhill, truly a safe and welcoming community which values its students, families, and constituents The vibes go far beyond our walls to reach friends of Oakhill, community businesses, alumni, parents of alumni, Gladstone, and the Northland in general Oakhill is an important piece of the Northland, the only private, independent school north of the river
Being an independent, private school means we are afforded many freedoms; we do not receive state or federal funding, we do not have to abide by state curricula regulations, and we are free from red tape when it comes to decision making.
All of this means we rely on tuition, auxiliary revenue (summer program, gym rentals, kids club/classes), and fundraising to balance an 8 million dollar budget. Oakhill’s tuition dollars cover approximately 75% of our expenses which include categories such as competitive faculty/staff salaries and benefits, faculty professional development and training, curriculum and instructional costs, technology/cybersecurity, professional accreditation and affiliation fees, standardized (ERB and ACT) testing fees, school security (an official security guard and yearly security upgrades), campus operations (mowing, snow removal, HVAC, plumbing, painting, tree maintenance, cleaning crew and supplies, and general repairs and maintenance), marketing and website, database costs, copiers, and much more I share all of this to help our community understand the importance of our fundraising efforts
Oakhill does not have an endowment or significant cash reserves, yet we continue to find a way to make it happen. As we plan for the days, months, and years ahead, we continue to add budgeted money to our PPRRSM (Provision for Plant Replacement, Renewal, and Special Projects) account. This account is set aside for emergency plant repair or facilities related special projects. We will continue to grow this account each year, ensuring deferred maintenance does not get in the way of our future goals and plans
Thank you for your continued generosity, engagement, and trust in Oakhill!
cation ahead,
Suzanne McCanles Head of School
In high school, Kylee Carlson ('19) embarked on an 8-day mission trip that left a lasting impact on her life Inspired to deepen her experience, she applied for a missions-based internship in the Dominican Republic, joined by a few friends who shared her passion After a rigorous application process, Kylee was selected for the trip With a solid foundation in Spanish from her years at Oakhill, she continued building her language skills, which became invaluable as she immersed herself in the local culture and connected deeply with the community. Curious to learn more about Kylee’s journey and the powerful impact of her mission work, we sat down with her to hear the stories and insights from her time in the Dominican Republic. Here’s what she shared with us.
What did you do while you were there?
Overall, the job of the interns is to live life with the missionaries and help with whatever they need that day Their primary ministry is Pan de Vida (Bread of Life) which is a feeding program for local children Via a sponsorship, kids can come to the facility for a meal six days a week and also receive basic medical care, school supplies, access to safe playground, tutoring, and extra-curricular classes- all of which are integrated with the Gospel message and discipleship. Every morning we went to play with the kids in the program, and taught extracurricular classes. I got to teach dance class with my dear friend, Lily We also did projects around the facility like removing rotten trees, trash pickup, and painting
They have a new mothers ministry where mothers who are pregnant or have toddlers and newborns can come and take educational classes for points in exchange for free items such as food, bottles, clothes, toys, etc. These
classes cover topics from lactation to basic nutrition They can also get free therapy, lactation consultations, ultrasounds, and prenatal medication We did lots of supply organization, and I held lots of babies while their moms got scanned or took classes, as well as just chatting! Many of them were close in age to me.
In the local hospital, conditions for patients were not great. They often have to supply their own sheets, staff are not the kindest, and the majority of patients don’t get visitors at all because of work and extremely short visiting hours. The female interns go to the labor and delivery unit to visit postpartum moms, who go through a lot to deliver a baby Afterwards, they get placed in a communal room despite their circumstances A mom who has healthy twins can be next to a mom who just miscarried If the hospital is crowded, they may even share a bed We went to each mom to talk and pray with them
Oakhill Alumna, Kylee Carlson (‘19), had an amazing opportunity during the summer of 2024 to take part in a missions-based internship to San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic In an impoverished area, three hours from Santo Domingo, Kylee had the opportunity to live life with the missionaries stationed in the area to help with daily needs
Since they have few or no visitors, we are often the first to tell them they did great, ask them how they’re doing, and tell them how perfect their baby is. We pray with each mama and remind them God is watching over them and their child. We also give them a hygiene bag, since the hospital does not provide those needs either.
Three hundred families live within a city block we call the refugee area. Years ago, there was a destructive natural disaster and this village formed as a result The government intervened and built an apartment building for these families, but the very next day 300 more families were moved in These living conditions are the worst of the worst Houses are made of tin and cardboard, with no flooring Air conditioning, clean water, and sanitation facilities are nonexistent There is trash, animal feces, and broken glass everywhere; violence is common at night. Medical clinics distribute over-the-counter medicine to the families living here. Many individuals have intense infections and wounds, which we treat to the best of our ability. We also do many children’s outreaches, which gives children a chance to be normal kids and just play, while also hearing a Bible story.
In between moments of service, we spent lots of time simply being in Dominican culture! We went cliff jumping in the rain, attended many local church services, shopped and bartered at markets, and (my favorite) rode motorcycles and talked with the natives! Three Dominicans live with the missionaries who are named Cabo, Santo, and Ashley I had such a fun time communicating with them and learning about their lives, they are some of the kindest and funniest individuals I've ever met. It was hilarious to navigate conversations with them, trying to fit our English and Spanish puzzle pieces together. I have Oakhill's Spanish program to thank for my ability to communicate with them.
The skills I learned in middle school literally granted me access to an entire group of people, and they were so appreciative of my effort to speak with them in their native language.
What was your biggest takeaway from the trip? My biggest takeaway from this experience is the need for people to know Jesus, and how important it is to prayerfully and financially support missionaries. We can only do so much, it truly takes something above us to release these
Do you have any plans to go back or take another mission trip?
Yes! As of right now, I plan to visit in about three years after I graduate. Having such flexible summers as a future educator, I also intend to spend time serving and supporting this work if I am able My church is currently tossing around the idea of going to Africa within the next few years, which I would be very interested in as well
Where are you up to now?
I have started my sophomore year at Baker University; I am majoring in elementary education. I was fortunate to work at Oakhill's summer camp for the past five years, which truly solidified my love for being in a classroom. As of right now, my plan is to teach Kindergarten or first grade!
Life After Oakhill: Updates from Our Graduates
Amy Graham (‘17)
Joey Nguyen (‘20)
Amy Graham (‘17), a senior who attends Boston University, was elected Editor-in-Chief of the International Relations Review at Boston University What an incredible honor! This publication is distributed in the Library of Congress and is one of the most consulted journals from all perspectives and on all subjects pertaining to international relations Impressively, she managed her campaign from Dublin, Ireland while studying abroad and gave her proposal speech remotely Her vision for the International Relations Review focuses on inclusivity, allowing students from other majors with relevant writings to contribute As editor-in-chief, she'll oversee collaboration among over 100 students in the publication
Amy attributes her success, among other things, the strong foundation that she received at Oakhill. Her family is very thankful for the education she received and we are all so very proud of her.
Read more about Amy Graham online at https://www.irreview.org/eic-amygraham.
Joey Nguyen (‘20) has always had an interest in science In 6th grade at Oakhill, he and Cole Southard (‘20) won an award at the Kansas City Science and Engineering Fair, and his love for science has continued since then After applying and being waitlisted to the UMKC School of Medicine, a spot in the program was offered! He accepted their offer and was excited to start the program this fall All his hard work paid off!
Oakhill for Life:
Building Foundations That Last Beyond Graduation
A "lifer" at Oakhill Day School is a student who spends their entire educational journey with us, from preschool through 8th grade. This commitment to continuity is more than a long-standing attendance; it’s a transformative choice that supports a child’s growth in character, resilience, and lifelong values Lifers truly embody Oakhill's Portrait of a Graduate, which describes our ideals of adaptability, community orientation, confidence, and service-mindedness. They are students who, over time, develop a deep sense of balance, self-awareness, and readiness to seize opportunities
Choosing an independent school like Oakhill for the full span of these formative years has unique value In last year’s graduating 8th-grade class, 18 of 25 students were lifers, demonstrating the powerful impact of this continuous journey. By staying with Oakhill, students build lasting relationships, gain the ability to think critically, act independently, and approach life with kindness and integrity. Families who choose this path invest in their child’s holistic development, knowing that Oakhill’s support will extend beyond academics and continue as a lifelong network and grounding influence
Lifers leave with much more than academic knowledge; they carry a strong foundation that shapes their future choices and strengthens bonds within our community This enduring connection makes Oakhill more than a school it’s a family that supports, challenges, and inspires each student to become their very best self
2024 Oakhill 8th Grade Graduates
Ila Abella*
Emma Avery*
Yasmine Azab
Christopher Benson*
Ian Bradley
Hadley Carlson*
Evan Catterson*
Lily Clemis
Olivia Emerson
Daniel Fitzpatrick*
Liam Gorman
Truman Gregg*
Brooke Guidry
Huntley Harken*
Barrett Hutcheson*
Anna Johnson*
Alma Kirkpatrick*
Selina Liu
Quynh Nguyen*
Annabelle Schneider*
Caleb Smith*
Jacob Songer*
Sophie Tenner*
Gavin Weimhold*
Jackson Wert*
*Lifers - Students who attended Oakhill from Preschool - 8th Grade
Embracing Collaboration: A Spotlight on Kristin Forsen’s Role at Oakhill Day School
At Oakhill Day School, collaboration isn’t just a buzzword it’s the heartbeat of our educational approach We had the pleasure of speaking with Kristin Forsen, a Kindergarten teacher and Director of Curriculum and Instruction, to dive into how collaborative planning, teacher autonomy, and cross-grade teamwork contribute to an enriching learning environment for our students
A Snapshot of Collaborative Planning
For Kristin Forsen, who has been with Oakhill for nine years, collaborative planning is an engaging and dynamic process. “Our planning sessions are a blend of shared voices, talents, and experiences,” she explains. “We start with our end goals and work backward to create a path to achieve them This process ensures that every voice is heard and that each member’s unique strengths are integrated into our plans ” This collaborative spirit not only enriches the curriculum but also fosters deeper connections across grade levels, enhancing the educational experience for students
The Power of Autonomy
Oakhill’s commitment to teacher autonomy plays a crucial role in fostering effective collaboration. Kristin highlights how this flexibility has led to innovative teaching strategies. “For instance, our collaboration with the Innovation Lab teacher, Sara Verwers, allowed us to integrate technology into our kindergarten curriculum,” Kristin notes “By aligning our goals, we enhanced our students’ learning experiences with innovative tools and resources ”
Cross-Grade Collaboration: A Win-Win Working across grade levels offers significant benefits Kristin and her colleagues actively engage with teachers from other grades to ensure continuity and relevance in their teaching.
“By collaborating with teachers from different grades, we gain valuable insights into what students have previously learned and what they’ll encounter next,” she says. “This crossgrade planning helps us tailor our instruction to bridge gaps and prepare students for future learning.”
A Successful Project: The Corn Unit
One standout example of successful collaboration is the thematic corn unit Kristin and her teaching partner, Laura Pearce, teamed up with middle school science teacher Jared Cole to deepen their students’ understanding of the corn life cycle “Jared’s expertise enriched our unit with new resources and a local field trip opportunity,” Kristin shares. “We also collaborated on integrating corn crops into our Living Lab, which will offer students hands-on learning about plant growth and measurement.”
Professional Growth Through Collaboration
Oakhill’s collaborative environment is instrumental in Kristin’s professional development “Collaborating with my colleagues has expanded my teaching toolbox,” she says “We share techniques, strategies, and knowledge, which helps us continuously refine our practice Participating in professional development opportunities, like the Elevate Conference, also allows us to bring fresh ideas back to the classroom ”
Creating an Inspiring Learning Environment
Kristin’s collaboration with teaching partners, like Mrs Pearce, fosters a supportive and inspiring learning environment “Our joint efforts and shared teaching styles enrich our students’ experiences,” she notes. “We often receive positive feedback from families about how our collaborative approach enhances their children’s learning and strengthens our school community.”
Balancing Individual Teaching Styles
Kristin’s experience highlights the importance of balancing individual teaching styles with collaborative efforts “Sharing techniques, strategies, and resources strengthens our pedagogy and provides enriching opportunities for students,” she explains
Aligning with Oakhill’s Mission
Kristin’s collaborative efforts align with Oakhill’s mission to help each student become their best self. “Collaboration ensures that we are continually meeting student needs in a variety of ways,” she says. “It’s all about providing the best possible learning experience for our students.”
About Kristin Forsen
Kristin Forsen, who teaches Kindergarten and serves as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction, has been a vital part of the Oakhill community for nine years With a B A in Elementary Education, an M A in Curriculum and Instruction, and an Ed S in Curriculum and Instruction from UMKC, Kristin is dedicated to fostering a love of learning in her students Her passion for education was inspired by her first-grade teacher, and she hopes every student leaves her classroom feeling empowered to pursue their dreams
Outside the classroom, Kristin enjoys exploring Kansas City, taking road trips, spending time with her family, and making music As a proud Oakhill parent, she understands both the classroom and family perspectives, making her contributions even more impactful
Kristin Forsen’s role at Oakhill exemplifies the power of collaboration in creating an effective and supportive educational environment. Her commitment to working with colleagues across grade levels and integrating innovative practices highlights the school’s mission to inspire and challenge students to become their best selves.
At Oakhill we have many options for students to sharpen their leadership skills Student Ambassadors represent the entire student body to the external and internal community
Ambassadors are nominated by faculty and go through an application process which includes letters of reference and an interview with administrators Student Council allows students to work with fellow students on activities for the school community to enjoy while National Junior Honor Society students plan, prepare and promote service learning activities. Even if students don’t have a role in one of these organizations, there are plenty of other opportunities to develop leadership skills including drama performance, athletics, clubs and even just in the classroom. Leadership is a lifelong skill that we work hard to develop in all Oakhill students.
Oakhill
APPLE BUTTER OATMEAL BARS
Serving Size: 1 bar
Makes 24 servings
Ingredients
cooking spray, as needed
2 c. old fashioned oats
2 c. all purpose flour
1-1/2 c. light brown sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/3 c. canola oil
1/2 c. apple juice
2-1/4 c. apple butter
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Lightly oil a 1/2 sheet pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, work together oats, flour, brown sugar, salt and baking soda until no lumps of brown sugar remain. Drizzle canola oil and apple juice over the oats and mix until evenly moistened and crumbly. Set aside 1/2 cup of this mixture for the topping. Press the remainder evenly into the prepared sheet pan. Spread apple butter over the top. Sprinkle with reserved oat topping.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden. Let cool in the baking pan on a wire rack.
5. Cut 4x6 into 24 equal portions.
Tip: This recipe works best in a 24 bar serving since it fits perfectly in a 1/2 sheet tray. Wrap extra bars individually in wax paper or parchment and place in a freezer bag. Take bars out of the freezer as needed and allow to thaw.
Recipe powered by FLIK
Nutrition information per serving: 160 calories, 4g fat, 0g saturated fat, 80mg sodium, 29g carbohydrates, 16g sugar, 1g fiber, 2g protein
Meals with a Mission:
How FLIK and Oakhill Are Elevating School Dining
At Oakhill Day School, we know that good nutrition is fundamental to a child’s ability to learn, concentrate, and thrive. That’s why we’re proud to partner with FLIK Independent School Dining Services for the 2024-25 school year to provide fresh, balanced meals that nourish our students each day.
FLIK’s approach to school dining goes beyond just serving food it’s about creating a culinary experience that fuels young minds and bodies. With a commitment to cooking from whole, fresh ingredients, FLIK’s team, led by our on-site chef, Chef Cary, and a dietitian, ensures that every meal supports learning, growth, and overall well-being
The menus FLIK provides aren’t only delicious they’re thoughtfully crafted to meet the diverse needs of our community The meals are made from scratch, incorporating local and regional flavors, and are tailored to meet a range of dietary requirements and preferences, from allergies to age-appropriate options By providing nutritious options to all students, FLIK plays a crucial role in helping us sustain a healthy learning environment
For Oakhill students, having nutritious meals as part of their daily routine enhances their capacity to learn, play, and grow. And, yes, Fro-Yo Fridays remain a highlight for everyone!
If you’d like to experience the quality of Oakhill and FLIK’s dining program, we invite you to join us for lunch or try a take-home dinner this week. Nourishing our students to help them reach their potential is a key part of what makes our school community thrive.
This year, FLIK also offers take-home dinners twice a week, making it easy for families to bring the quality of Oakhill dining home It’s just one more way FLIK supports our community’s wellness
At Oakhill, mealtime is much more than a break in the day. It’s a time when students connect with friends and teachers, share stories, and recharge for the learning ahead. The fresh, balanced meals FLIK provides help students stay focused, energized, and ready to make the most of their classroom experiences. For our younger students, breakfast, snacks, and lunch options are available each day, and for grades 4 through 8, an all-inclusive breakfast and lunch program fuels their mornings and afternoons
Fun Fact: Did you know that nutritious school meals can significantly boost students' academic outcomes? Research shows that:
Well-nourished students perform up to 17% better on academic assessments than those who don’t receive balanced meals regularly
Children who eat a healthy breakfast are more likely to score higher in math and reading, as well as exhibit better focus and memory throughout the school day
Studies have found a 20% improvement in test scores when students consistently eat meals that are balanced and nutrient-rich, showing that regular access to fresh, nutritious food directly impacts cognitive performance. Supporting our students' nutrition is a foundational part of Oakhill’s commitment to learning excellence and we’re thrilled to work with FLIK to ensure our students have the fuel they need to succeed!
A NOTE FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
On behalf of the Board, a sincere thank you to the entire Oakhill community. You helped support another great year with generous donations of time, treasure, and talent. In the 2023-2024 school year, we saw increased attendance for school activities and events, as well as seeing more families and faces back in the building to support our teachers, staff, and students (your kids and grandkids)!
This past year we saw a substantial increase in the number of households giving to our Mighty Oak Fund. This is awesome and thank you to all who contributed. If you are not aware, the intention behind Mighty Oak Fund is to bridge the gap between income that tuition dollars bring in, versus the expense to run Oakhill as a whole. There is a purposeful gap created to ensure tuition is as low as possible, but we do need your help to reduce that gap. Please continue to give to Oakhill and consider making Oakhill one of your top three organizations to support. Your giving truly makes a difference. The Administration and Board have listened to your feedback and will be reducing the number of fundraising events to create more focus on the importance of two main fundraising campaigns: the Oakhill Mighty Oak Fund, and also our annual Auction I am hopeful that as we create focus and streamline opportunities families are able to give more than last year, in some cases much more
The primary focus of the Board of Trustees remains serving the Oakhill Community as a fiduciary board overseeing and supporting Suzanne’s leadership and vision for this amazing school We are all committed to the long-range financial success of Oakhill ensuring that future generations can benefit from this amazing school and community.
So thank you once again, and we all appreciate you choosing Oakhill and and for trusting this school with your children.
Josh Smith
Josh Smith President, Oakhill Board of Trustees
2023-2024 Board of Trustees
Josh Smith (President)
Tammy Wright (Vice-President)
Dr Elizabeth Manion (Secretary)
Jason Rule (Treasurer)
Vicki Asher
Ron Gregg
Amy Harlin
Amanda Lam
Dr. An Le
Dr. Collin Lovitt
Ryan Mitchell
Josh Perkins
Kent Peterson
Sara Weindruch
Oakhill's Dynamic Approach to Fundraising: Cultivate,
Educate, Elevate
The 2023-24 school year marked a pivotal change for Oakhill Day School as we embraced a team leadership approach to our fundraising initiatives Our dedicated Advancement Team focused on three core principles: Cultivate, Educate, and Elevate These principles guided us in leading the school’s community to raise vital funds for the benefit of each and every Oakhill student
Cultivate: Building a Strong Foundation
The Advancement Team made it a priority to build a robust database, laying a solid foundation of support to ensure Oakhill thrives for generations to come With over 75 years of history in the Northland, it's crucial for Oakhill to foster a strong base of past and present donors. These donors are key to securing the school’s financial future, benefiting not only today’s students but also those of tomorrow.
Educate: Broadening Our Reach
Through initiatives like new family meetings, advancement blog posts, and visibility at community events, the Advancement Team worked tirelessly to educate our community We highlighted the importance of supporting Oakhill through time, talents, and financial resources
While Oakhill is a private independent school, financial support beyond tuition is essential. It allows us to offer tuition assistance and scholarships, attract and retain top-notch teachers, and continually update our curriculum to support excellent student outcomes
Elevate: Reaching New Heights
The primary goal for the Advancement Team this year was to elevate overall giving at Oakhill. Through various fundraising events, focusing on specific needs within the school, and working with key constituents to strategically address fundraising goals, we aimed to push Oakhill to its greatest potential This included strategizing admissions goals and processes to grow our vibrant community
Thank You!
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who met with us, volunteered, made contributions, and attended Oakhill’s fundraising events! Your support is the lifeblood of our vibrant community of learners and educators.
Together, we are ensuring a bright and thriving future for Oakhill Day School.
The Advancement team members are (Left to Right): Suzanne McCanles, Head of School; Maggie Newhouse, Assistant Head of School for Academic and Student Affairs; Sherri Gannon, Registrar, Purchaser, and Advancement Support; Taylor Clevenger, Assistant Head of Non-academic Affairs; Michelle McDaniel, Director of Marketing, Communications and Mission Advancement and Dorothy Beckham, Director of Enrollment and Tuition Assistance
Endless Thanks Highlights from the PTO
To say “Thank you” simply isn’t enough to express the level of gratitude to all the parents, guardians, teachers, and staff who have actively participated in our PTO events and initiatives throughout the year Your support and dedication were instrumental in making the year a success It truly has been a pleasure to serve alongside of all the great volunteers during my first term as PTO President.
We started out the year with the Back to School Carnival and although it was blistering hot, it was a great success and fun was had by all. From inflatables to outdoor games, food trucks and face painting, there was something for everyone and all ages
The fall season always brings a lot of activities with the Grandparents and Special Friends Day, and Red Barn Farm events in October and the Holiday Hoopla in November The Holiday Hoopla was the largest in the event’s history and vendors filled the gymnasium as well as the commons area. More than 300 people attended the event and we are looking forward to it being even bigger this coming year
For the Mother/Son and Father/Daughter Date Nights, the volunteers turned the gym into a country western oasis with plenty of line dancing and was a great time for parents and student to sing and dance the night away
These are just a few of the main events that the PTO sponsored this year and we are looking forward to them and others next year
In addition to putting on events, the PTO has a Teacher Appreciation Committee and Room Parents that go above and beyond for the teachers, staff, and students throughout the year This group of parents work tirelessly to make sure that each and every individual feels special during the class parties or the “Turkey Pluck” (which is always a big hit!), to making sure the teachers have the ability to have a meal available during parent-teacher conferences in the fall and spring.
Our year ended with the picnic in Linden Square again this year and with hot dogs, chips, ice pops and music from our very own students, the day could not have been better
In closing, I feel so very blessed to be a part of Oakhill
Thank you to all that have given your time, treasures, and your talents to continue to make Oakhill such a wonderful community for our families I am looking forward to our next year together and know it will be even better than our last.
Tammy Wright PTO President (2023-2025)
Tammy Wright
The Impact of Our PTO
For the 2023-2024 school year, Oakhill’s Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) continues to be a cornerstone of our school community, enhancing the Oakhill experience in meaningful ways The PTO’s fundraising efforts directly support valuable initiatives, such as upgraded resources, extracurricular programs, and campus improvements, all of which enrich students' daily lives However, their true impact extends beyond finances The PTO’s commitment to building connections strengthens the bond among Oakhill families, making our school a welcoming, united community where both students and families feel at home and engaged
Funds in Action!
Thanks to the incredible support of the PTO during the 20232024 school year, all funds raised were dedicated to faculty and staff professional development, empowering 38 members of the Oakhill Day School team to participate in impactful learning opportunities throughout the year.
2023-2024 PTO Board
Tammy Wright (President)
Courtney Johnson (President-Elect)
Ashley Williams (Vice-President)
Mary Mathes (Secretary)
Sara Weindruch (Treasurer)
Michelle Shekleton (Past President)
Suzanne McCanles (Head of School)
Terri Ferris (Volunteer Coordinator)
Maggie Newhouse (Assistant Head of School for Academic and Student Affairs)
Committee Chairs
Amanda Baldwin
Michelle Boyd
Melissa Davis
Jenny Julian
Alyssa Kimbrough
Ali Mordhorst
Julie Rule
Kristen Ruth
Ashley White
Courteney Williamson
2023-2024 Financial Snapshot
$7,523,418
Oakhill Day School remains committed to financial stability and growth through careful budgeting and the strong support of our community This year, the generosity of donors and income from programs such as summer activities have allowed us to balance our budget, covering essential school needs while investing in enhancements like new books, technology, and engaging programs
Thanks to strategic financial planning, we’ve been able to sustain the high standards of our learning environment supporting our exceptional faculty, quality classrooms, and technological upgrades We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to these efforts, helping to maintain Oakhill as a vibrant place for students to thrive.
With this strong foundation, we look forward to a bright future for our school community. REVENUE: $7,534,566
2023-2024 DONOR ROSTER
2023-2024 Mighty Oak Fund Donors
Circle of Excellence
($10,000 and above)
Dennis Curtin and Tamara Libbey-Curtin
Kevin Ong and Amanda Lam
Tony and Barbara Lewis
Josh and Shannon Smith
Head of School
($5,000 to $9,999)
Bobbie Mathes
Mark and Karen Mathes
Lynna McManus
Michael and Karen Morris
Josh and Brittany Perkins
Pride Pack
($1,000 to $4,999)
Scott and Cyndi Davidson
Ronald Gregg and Michelle Dew
Alex Dickey
Chris and Nikki Fernandez
Josh and Amanda Kroman
Tan Nguyen and An Le
Steve Leggans
Daniel and Elizabeth Lindgren
Smith and Elizabeth Manion
Jared and Mary Mathes
Kevin and Suzanne McCanles
Charles and Beverly McMurray
Peter and Maggie Newhouse
Martha Perkins
Kent and Heeok Peterson
Bryan and Rebecca Plemmons
Christopher Onik and Molly Rothove
Jason and Julie Rule
Kevin and Michelle Shekleton
State Street
Chris and David Hemingway-Turner
Eric and Morgan Watts
Julia and Sara Weindruch
Christopher Jay and Tammy Wright
1947 Club
($500 to $999)
Vicki Asher
Tree Patch - Midwest Tree Farm & Landscape Co
Ron and Sandy Diven
Richard and Kathryn Dodson
David and Marcy Driskill
Lawson Parker and Shea Durington
Terri Ferris
Chris and Jenny Henry
Ryan and Allison Huff
William and Nita James
Kole and Anita Krasniqi
Terry and Sherry Mitchell
Ryan and Bridgette Mitchell
Wayne and Lindsay Morris
Oracle
David Pittenger
Robert and Lexie Pohl
Ty and Margaret Sarver
Elaine Scheidecker
Ryan and Laura Schmidt
Brett and Elaine Smith
Teal and White
($250 to $499)
UMB Bank
Chris and Dorothy Beckham
Connie Carlson
Charles and Kathy Clark
Jared and Pamela Cohen
Dwight Farber
Brad and Kristin Forsen
Amy Ganaden
Ronald and Carol Giddens
Michael and Jana Guidry
Shannon Selby and Shannon Hessemyer
Robert and Joy Jackson
Zachary and Nicole James
Tim and Jenny Julian
Sam and Cori Katzman
Bob and Gola MacDonald
Teal and White
($250 to $499)
Jeff and Audra Olson
Susan Saunders
Kathy Trager
Joel and Sara Verwers
William and Renee Westfall
Friends of Oakhill
($249 and below)
Anonymous
Jill Arganbright
Jonathan and Lisa Avery
Joe Banks and Kristi Kinder
Patrick Benson and Melinda Curphy
Forrest and Ann Bertoldie
Dr. Bilal Farhat and Mrs. Anna Frantz
Kyle and Lauren Borgeson
Eric and Kim Bosch
Alex and Michelle Boyd
Bonnie Brennen
Matt and Katie Brunkhorst
Beau and Michelle Cameron
Brett and Erin Carver
Matthew and Valerie Cervarich
Larry and Sharon Chambers
Bryan Chang and Jamie Dowlen
Emily Chang
Amy and David Chou
Dave Clarkson
Martin and Becky Clemis
Anna Amelia Clemmons
Taylor and Kaylyn Clevenger
Jared and Michele Cole
Quentin and Dena Cole
Johnathan and Angela Compton
Summer Craven
Michael and Janelle Crouse
Oakhill Day School: Annual Report
Christopher and Jaci Ebert
Nathan and Jodi Egbert
Steve and Barb Ely
Justin and Nicole Fallein
Katherine Fitzpatrick
Andrea Fontana
Erin Frank
Mick and Kelly Freyermuth
Jeff and Sherri Gannon
Aria Glenn
Greg Greenberg and Stephanie Phillips
Jane Gruschka
Carl and Marah Guastello
April Gunderson
Matt and Haley Haar
2023-2024 Mighty Oak Fund Total
$188,927
Kerrie Curtin and Domenic Zappia
Kelsey and Robert DeGeorge
Andrea DeLuke
Michael Devitt and Stacey Stowers-Devitt
Brad and Lisa Diven
A heartfelt thank you goes out to all our donors of Oakhill's Mighty Oak Fund for the 2023-2024 academic year Your generous support has been pivotal in fostering a vibrant learning environment for our students Thanks to your contributions, we have been able to enhance resources and implement innovative programs that elevate the educational experience We are deeply appreciative of your commitment to our school community; it is your generosity that enables Oakhill to thrive and reach new heights Thank you for being an invaluable part of our journey toward continued excellence.
Samuel and Melaina Hagan
Jeff and Amy Harlin
Red Hat
Ty and Kelsey Hawkins
Jo Hill
Paul Himmelstein
Mike and Janet Holloway
Jeffrey Holmes and Cody WalkerHolmes
John and Katy Hornaday
Heidi Hulé
David and Leah Hyatt
Cameo Ibsen
Bill and Tara Johnson
Mary Kay Duensing-Lofland
James and Hayley Keown
Justin and Michelle Kieslich
Matt and Alyssa Kimbrough
Christopher and Allie King
Jacob and Stephanie Kleyh
Linda Kramer
Zachary and Lori Kramer
Sunny and Jana Kumar
Raymond Kung and Eve Soo
Jeremy and Stephanie Lafferty
Ryan and Nicole Langemach
Vincent and Violanta Lewis
Zhao Lin and Jian Liu
Shawn and Tondeé Lutterman
Brendan and Jessica MacNaughton
Sue MacPherson
Robert and Toni Mallams
Lisa Manley
Don and Deana Mason
Justin and Laurel Mathes
Calan and Sarah McConkey
Brett and Nikki McElwaine
Farrah McGuire
Adam and Lacey Meier
Brett and Jessica Meyring
Trent and Alison Mordhorst
Tim and Alison Myers
Thomas and Hilary Onik
Greg and Tiara Palmer
Austin and Rachel Panko
Craig and Katie Parker
Marissa Parson
Ryan and Katie Paulus
Michael and Abby Pavlisin
James and Laura Pearce
Don and Sharon Phillips
Binh Phung and Grace Chen
Drew and Krystal Pittenger
Ashly Reagan
Brad and Maria Remaly
Dale and Amie Robertson
Shelby Robinson
Nicholas and Lena Rodriguez
Elliot and Teddy Ross
Victoria Rudolph
Darro Rusk
Chris Schrick
Eric and Ashley Seaton
Bob and Irene Siedler
Charles and Barb Smith
Daniel and Kristin Smith
Sheila Sommers
James and Jill Spencer
Cody and Molly Spoon
Lori Stallman
Chris and Erin Stout
Chris and Amanda Surber
Glenn and Nancy Surber
Myra Taylor
George Taylor
Micah and Sarah Tenner
David and Jamie Travaglione
Garrett and Melissa Tuck
Phillip Vollenweider and Maria Diaz de la Peña
James Waller
Brett and Geneice Warga
Steve and Joni Warga
Lawrence and Jennifer Weimhold
Andrew Wert and Michelle McDaniel
Mary-Kathryn Wert
Kevin and Nicole White
Dustin and Cassandra Whitney
Adam and Ashley Williams
Michael and Courteney Williamson
Joshua Wood
Sonya Wright
Lucas and Stephanie Youngblood
Tim and Hayley Ziegler
Delaney Zimmermann
2023-2024 Giving Tuesday Donors
For the 2023-2024 school year, Oakhill's Giving Tuesday initiative focused on enhancing our school's safety and security measures. Funds raised during this campaign were dedicated to critical improvements, including the installation of new doors for the gym
The gymnasium is not only the heart of Oakhill, but it also plays a vital role in our community’s activities, events, and Champion Panther Athletics This year's initiative aimed to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all, reinforcing our commitment to providing a secure space for students, families, and visitors alike
Dave and Kathryn Barone
Mark and Kelly Bigler
Alex and Michelle Boyd
Anna Amelia Clemmons
Dodson Construction
Justin Cooley
Richard and Kathryn Dodson
Joseph and Elizabeth Edmondson
Chris and Nikki Fernandez
Jason Draut and Amanda Ferrel
Terri Ferris
Jeanette Fitzpatrick
Kyle Gabrielson
Amy Ganaden
Michael Graham and Erika Jurado-Graham
Shannon Selby and Shannon Hessemyer
John and Katy Hornaday
Jeff and Courtney Johnson
Sam and Cori Katzman
Matt and Alyssa Kimbrough
Christopher and Allie King
Sunny and Jana Kumar
Kevin Ong and Amanda Lam
Smith and Elizabeth Manion
Emily Marsh
Justin and Laurel Mathes
Nicholas and Rebecca Maxwell
Kevin and Suzanne McCanles
Adam and Lacey Meier
Brett and Jessica Meyring
Ryan and Bridgette Mitchell
Wayne and Lindsay Morris
An Le and Tan Nguyen
Don and Sharon Phillips
Bryan and Rebecca Plemmons
Nate Poundstone
Lisa Riddle
Jeremy and Erica Scott
Daniel and Kristin Smith
Elaine Smith
Josh and Shannon Smith
Jeff and Ann Songer
David and Jamie Travaglione
Christopher and David Hemingway-Turner
Brett and Geneice Warga
Eric and Morgan Watts
Daniel and Donna Weindruch
2023-2024 Auction & Fund-a-Need
Our “Off to the Races” Kentucky Derby auction was a memorable evening of fun, community, and philanthropy We extend our deepest gratitude to our gracious hosts, Dennis Curtin and Tamara Libbey-Curtin, for their hospitality and for allowing us to transform their estate into our own “Churchill Downs” for the night With a goal of raising $220,000 for the 2023-2024 auction season, guests enthusiastically raised their paddles to support Oakhill students, bidding on exciting items like an autographed Taylor Swift guitar and incredible vacation packages.
Looking ahead, we are thrilled to bring the 20242025 auction back to Oakhill for “Lights, Camera, Oakhill,” where we’ll capture the glamour of Hollywood for another unforgettable night Thank you to all who made this year’s auction a success and for your unwavering support of our school community and students!
2023-2024 Auction Income
$200,598
2023-2024 Fund-a-Need Donors
Michael and Jennifer Boyd
JC and Jennifer Cox
Adam and Kate Jensen
Sam and Cori Katzman
Mark and Karen Mathes
Peter and Maggie Newhouse
Dr An Le and Tan Nguyen
Julia and Sara Weindruch
Mary-Kathryn Wert
2023-2024 Auction Sponsors
Green Lady Lounge
J. Quinn Boutique
Jowler Creek Winery
Magpies Boutique
Neutrolene
North Kansas City Beverage Company
Smooth Endings Fine Wine & Spirits
Taylor Animal Hospital
West Bottoms Whiskey Co.
2023-2024 Fund-a-Need
$3,120
2023-2024 Acorn Day Celebration
In the 2023-2024 academic year, Oakhill Day School's Acorn Day Celebration continued its cherished tradition of community and growth, blending meaningful fundraising efforts with student milestone celebrations
This year, Acorn Day focused on enhancing our green spaces, creating beautiful, inviting areas for students to learn, play, and connect with nature
Beyond its fundraising success, Acorn Day remains a vital celebration of transition and achievement for our students This special day recognizes Kindergarten and 8th-grade students as they mark key milestones in their academic journey With a spirit of unity, students, families, and faculty joined together to honor the progress and accomplishments of our young learners while investing in a more vibrant, inspiring campus Acorn Day has become a beloved tradition at Oakhill, embodying our school’s commitment to community, growth, and the joy of learning.
2023-2024 Acorn Day Donors
Dave and Kathryn Barone
Mara Beaman
Chris and Dorothy Beckham
Dave and Sandra Clarkson
Tree Patch - Midwest Tree Farm & Landscape Co
Robert and Lori Cohen
Quentin and Dena Cole
Richard and Kathryn Dodson
Barbara Dorris
2023-2024 Acorn Day Income
$6,175
Bryan Chang and Jamie Dowlan
David and Marcy Driskill
Steve and Barb Ely
Michael and Diane Fallein
The Mathes Family
Terri Ferris
Brad and Kristin Forsen
Jeff and Sherri Gannon
Nancy Graham
Marcus and Kathi Harris
Mike and Cindy Head
Cathy Johnson
Kindness, Care, and Concern Committee - ODS
Jay and Marta Kimball
Matt and Alyssa Kimbrough
Bob and Gola MacDonald
Don and Deana Mason
Arlene Mauery
Beverly Maupin
Kevin and Suzanne McCanles
Adam and Lacey Meier
Dr. An Le and Tan Nguyen
Scott and Michelle Nordyke
Jim and Debbie Penn
Don and Sharon Phillips
John and Polly Roe
Darro Rusk
Ty and Margaret Sarver
Charles and Barb Smith
Daniel and Kristin Smith
Mary Sue Smith
Glenn and Nancy Surber
David and Jamie Travaglione
Jim and Patricia Tuck
Brent Uhrmacher
Joel and Sara Verwers
Jeffrey Holmes and Cody WalkerHolmes
Julia and Sara Weindruch
Adam and Ashley Williams
Jeffrey and Colleen Williams
William and Patricia Wood
Anna Wutich
Lucas and Stephanie Youngblood
The Welcome Project: Progress and Milestones
the Welcome Project an important addition that has evolved over time to meet the growing needs of our community. This project has gone through several conceptual changes, each refining our vision and expanding the potential impact on our campus.
At its core, the Welcome Project is still focused on a new lobby and restroom area adjacent to the gym, creating a welcoming and functional entrance on the north side of campus This space is set to be approximately 3,000 square feet, featuring at least nine restrooms, including a family restroom, and a designated area for concessions This design allows guests to exit the gym without disturbing ongoing events, such as musicals, drama performances, athletic games, graduation ceremonies, and more The need for this dedicated space has been recognized for years, and thanks to the incredible support of our community, we are now closer than ever to reaching our cash goal for this essential part of the project.
stepped up with an incredibly generous donation to help fund a brand-new auxiliary gym. Over the last several months, we have exhausted our resources, meeting with multiple contractors and design teams to determine how this gym can best fit into our campus layout and serve our community. The Lobby and Restrooms will be completed no matter what, and we have designed the space to allow for a future gym addition if needed. However, we are calling on the community to help secure the additional $400,000 needed to make this auxiliary gym a reality now
With costs continuing to rise, achieving this goal now is crucial While the opportunity to add the gym may arise again in the future, it would require significantly more financial support if not done in tandem with the current project. If you’re willing to help bring the gym to life now and see the immense value it would bring to Oakhill, please contact Suzanne McCanles or Taylor Clevenger.
Looking toward the future, this gym potential addition fits seamlessly into our master plan and allows Oakhill to expand in ways that open new opportunities earlier practice times, dedicated space for major events like drama performances, musicals, Global Celebration, athletics, and much more. Additionally, it would pave the way for a future Upper School, allowing us to quickly integrate sports and activities into that program
Thank you for your continued enthusiasm and support as we work together to bring this transformative project to our community!
We would like to thank the following donors who have already contributed to making this vision possible:
Paul Anderson
Corner Cafe
Taylor and Kaylyn Clevenger
The Clever Family
Carl Davis
Ronald Gregg and Michelle Dew
Brad and Lisa Diven
Michael Graham and Erika Jurado-Graham
Jeff and Amy Harlin
Chris and Jenny Henry
Amy Hood
Brian and Collin Lovitt
Bob and Gola MacDonald
Smith and Elizabeth Manion
The Mathes Family
Meierotto Jewelers
Safiya Mohamed
Peter and Maggie Newhouse
An Le and Tan Nguyen
Jason Parson
Josh and Brittany Perkins
Drew and Krystal Pittenger
Elaine Scheidecker
Robert and Susan Selby
Josh and Shannon Smith
Jeff and Ann Songer
Phillip Vollenweider and Maria Diaz de la Peña
Daniel and Donna Weindruch
Julia and Sara Weindruch
Michael and Courteney Williamson
Tim and Hayley Ziegler
Beyond the Scoreboard Panther Athletics Update
athlete, no matter their skill level or experience
We see athletics as an extension of the classroom, offering students multiple opportunities to be challenged physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally The lessons learned on the court, field, or course are just as valuable as those taught within the walls of our classrooms.
At Oakhill, our athletics program is intentionally designed to grow with our students, starting in Early Childhood with introductory sport clinics. These foundational experiences allow our youngest students to develop fine motor skills, teamwork, and a love for physical fitness. As they progress into Lower School, they are introduced to team sports like basketball and flag football, where they begin to build upon the basics learned in clinics By the time students reach Intermediate and Middle School, they are ready to dive into competitive team sports, building on years of skill development, practice, and teamwork Each stage of our athletics program builds upon the previous one, ensuring that students are continuously growing, learning, and being challenged both physically and mentally.
graders, through a competitive league based in Texas Remarkably, one of our students emerged as the number one Super Smash Bros player in the country We also added Flag Football for boys in 2023-2024, and Girls Flag Football for 5th-8th graders is coming in 2024-2025 These additions underscore our commitment to providing diverse athletic opportunities, positioning Oakhill as the only school we know of making such strides in expanding sports equity at the middle school level.
Our commitment to growth continues with a new middle school dance team and golf program, expanding our athletics offerings to 13 sports for Intermediate and Middle School students From classic team sports like basketball and volleyball to e-Sports, dance, and golf, Oakhill provides activities for every student to enjoy and explore
The future of Oakhill athletics is bright, and we look forward to continuing to grow, challenge, and celebrate our student athletes in all their endeavors.
See the Oakhill Panthers in action!
Oakhill Day School's athletics program is built on a foundation that promotes not only physical activity but also personal growth, character development, and a sense of community. While we take pride in building competitive, winning teams, the heart of our program lies in sportsmanship, school spirit, skill development, and a balanced approach that emphasizes fair play and academic achievement.
OUR VISION
Our vision is to inspire through scholarship, achieved by empowering compassionate learners to contribute through adaptability, resilience, and service
