The Oaks and Seedlings tradition is alive and flourishing! On Friday, January 23rd, Upper and Middle School students gathered for breakfast and a day of activities planned by the administration—one of many events held throughout the year to support Gerstell’s mission of fostering a nurturing and mentoring environment. After breakfast, students and their Oaks and Seedlings families enjoyed karaoke, arts and crafts, yoga, meditation, and volleyball. In honor of Mental Health Month, they also wrote kind notes to classmates and messages of gratitude to local service members.
Last October, the Oaks and Seedlings Ceremony paired older students with younger ones to build a foundation of leadership, community, and friendship. Students in Grades 5–12 gathered as younger peers were paired with mentors who serve as role models year-round. These groups meet regularly to reconnect and strengthen their bonds.