Welcome!

Welcome to the Oakland School website!

We are delighted that you have chosen to learn more about Oakland. It won’t take much investigation to discover that Oakland is a very unique school and a very special place.

It is my privilege to serve as the fourth school director in Oakland’s fifty-year plus history. My personal history with Oakland began in 1978 when I served as a residential counselor. I later returned to the University of Virginia, where I had completed my undergraduate work, and received my graduate degree from the Curry School of Education. Having seen the successes of the children I had worked with in the dormitories, it was an exciting prospect to be able to continue my tenure at Oakland as a classroom teacher and, eventually, as the Assistant Director.

Through the years and my varied experiences, it became more and more clear to me why Oakland is so special. The peaceful country setting combined with a strong community that is entirely united around the cause of succeeding truly is inspiring. The passion for learning established by our founder, Margaret G. Shepherd, remains a guiding force at Oakland. Moreover, the commitment of our staff and the drive to succeed that we instill in our students makes me feel honored to be a part of this remarkable organization. Our focus on basic skills and reading as well as individualized attention has been an Oakland hallmark since our founding. It is all part of a highly successful formula and track record.

Graduates of Oakland regularly return to the grounds to say hello and update former teachers and staff on their lives and achievements. It is highly gratifying to see the difference we have made in so many lives. As you consider educational options for your child, we invite you to come to Oakland to see for yourself how we can help your child build the strong foundation needed for future educational success.

Carol Williams
Director, Oakland School