Students of Oakdale Charter are getting into the holiday spirit of giving back. Late last week approximately eight students of the charter school along with members of campus administration gathered to make blankets for Family Support Network.
“We are a home school,” campus teacher in charge, Tim Parola said of the East D Street campus. “The students don’t get a lot of socialization here at the school. So we’re trying to give them more opportunities to get together.”
The recent blanket project was the first of its type for the campus. Earlier this school year, a no bake cooking class was also hosted to offer students an on campus opportunity to bond with one another.
“What can we give back to the community and get the kids involved?” Parola said of the thoughts behind the blanket construction.
“I like to be creative in education,” the one time special education teacher said. “It intrigues me and is something I like to do.”
He noted staff members Robin Stocker and Jessica Menefee as the driving force behind the volunteer project. Approximately 12 blankets were made by the students for donation to FSN.
Current enrollment at Oakdale Charter is 65 students ranging from seventh grade to high school seniors. The capacity for the campus is 70. As a campus of Oakdale Joint Unified School District, the school criteria and standards are in alignment with its sister campuses.
“My teachers are fantastic,” Parola said of the school staff which has transitioned during the past three years, bringing a new energy and commitment to its student body. “I like the fact that we can be creative in getting to know people (students) on a personal basis. That’s my favorite part of my job.”
Now in his fourth year as Teacher in Charge at the campus, Parola credits the staff as well as the support of Superintendent Marc Malone for the increased interest and enrollment in the campus since first coming on board.
“When Mr. Malone became the Superintendent, it changed the campus focus to be college and career ready,” he said. “Our requirements are in alignment with the district.
“Word of mouth is the greatest advertisement,” he continued. “Our enrollment has gone up because of our students and their parents.”
For more information on Oakdale Charter School call 848-4361.
