On Monday, March 10, 2025, the Upper School proudly marked another milestone in its centennial celebration with the third installment of the Centennial Academic Series. This dynamic initiative infused Oak Knoll’s 100-year history into the academic experience, bringing students and faculty together to reflect, celebrate, and collaborate in creative ways. Throughout the school year, faculty and staff embraced the centennial theme, crafting engaging opportunities to connect students with Oak Knoll’s rich legacy.

Previously, we highlighted six of the nine incredible workshops from the earlier installments of the series, held on Friday, October 15, 2024, and Friday, January 10, 2025. Now, we are thrilled to share the final three workshops that concluded this inspiring academic celebration:

100 Years, 100 Words:

Students explored their creativity through a 100-word microfiction writing challenge. The activity encouraged participants to incorporate Oak Knoll’s storied history, Cornelia Connelly’s legacy, and the Holy Child goals into their stories, bringing to life the school’s essence in just a handful of words. The resulting narratives reflected the students’ insight and passion, capturing Oak Knoll’s spirit in new and imaginative ways.

Meeting the Wants of the Age Since 1924:

This workshop took students on a reflective journey through the century-long tradition of service at Oak Knoll. By investigating pivotal world events from 1924 to the present, participants discovered how the school has continuously partnered with service organizations to meet the evolving needs of society. Students presented their findings through discussions, participated in a meaningful service project, and engaged in prayer, weaving together Oak Knoll’s enduring values of faith, compassion, and action.

Breakout and Unlock the Secrets of Cornelia Connelly:

Students embarked on an immersive adventure into the life of foundress Cornelia Connelly through a collaborative escape-room challenge. Working together to solve puzzles and decode clues, they uncovered key moments of Cornelia’s life and ultimately unlocked a significant artifact hidden within a secured box. The session’s interactive format illuminated Cornelia’s vision and resilience, leaving students inspired by her legacy.

Stay tuned for our final culminating story later this spring!