Embrace the Journey

Empower the Future

Oakridge Academy was created for families who seek the structure and rigor of strong academics without sacrificing flexibility, curiosity, or joy. We blend the best of traditional and homeschool education, using evidence-based curriculum in a warm, collaborative learning community.

Students build a strong academic foundation through clear, direct instruction grounded in the science of learning, while also developing independence, critical thinking, communication, and real-world problem-solving skills—preparing them not just for the next grade, but for long-term success.

A Small, Boutique-Style Learning Community for Advanced Learners

Why Oakridge?

Child taking photo of flowers in a garden bed

Designed for Advanced Learners (Assessment & Trial Day Required)
Small Group Learning Environment
Strong, Research-Based Core Academics
Project-Based Learning in Science & Social Studies
Hands-On, Real-World Learning Experiences
Daily Outdoor Play & Nature Integration
Intentional Use of Technology
Close-Knit, Family-Like Community

"Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn."

-Benjamin Franklin

A woman with long brown hair, wearing a gray sweater, smiling in an outdoor setting with greenery in the background.

Meet Our Founder

I created Oakridge Academy because I wanted more for my daughter than a traditional classroom could offer. I saw how bright and capable she was—and knew she needed a place where she could think critically, create freely, and grow into her full potential.

Hi, I’m Stephanie Rasel—licensed therapist, educator, and mom.

With over 15 years of experience in education and therapy, I’ve dedicated my work to understanding how children grow, learn, and thrive.

When it came time for my daughter to start Kindergarten, I searched for a school that would truly protect her love of learning—where she would feel seen, inspired, and encouraged to become the best version of herself. When I couldn’t find it, I decided to create it.

Oakridge Academy is grounded in the belief that children deserve an education where they are challenged to think deeply, grow confidently, and be guided with intention along the way.

I’m so glad you’re here—and I look forward to welcoming your family to our community.

The Oakridge Experience

At Oakridge Academy, every choice we make is grounded in how children learn and thrive. Research shows that young learners benefit from direct, systematic instruction in foundational skills, paired with opportunities to explore, apply, and make meaning through hands-on experiences.

Our approach balances strong academics with curiosity, movement, and real-world learning—helping students grow into confident, capable thinkers who are prepared for long-term success.

Whole-Child Development
We nurture intellectual, emotional, social, and physical growth equally. Every learner’s well-being and sense of belonging are just as important as academic achievement.

The Science of How Children Learn
Our approach is grounded in the latest research and neuroscience on how children’s brains grow and learn best — through safety, connection, curiosity, active engagement, and experiential learning, because learning is most powerful when it’s an experience. This kind of environment builds a strong foundation for growth and fosters a lifelong love of learning.

Mastery Over Time
Our learners must master skills — not just earn a minimum grade — before moving on to the next set of skills. They advance when they are ready and can apply their learning to real-world challenges, instead of waiting on others or being tied to a curriculum schedule.

Autonomy & Agency — Independence Within Structure
We trust learners with meaningful choices about their work and projects, while providing clear boundaries that ensure safety, respect, and personal responsibility. This balance helps them build self-discipline and decision-making skills.

Strong Relationships & Small Learning Communities
We create multi-age groups in a small group setting that provide rich opportunities for peer learning, mentoring, and collaboration. To support both cross-age learning and strong same-age friendships, we ensure a minimum number of students from each age group.

Real-World Skills for Life
From entrepreneurship and problem-solving to collaboration and community service, learners gain practical skills and experiences that prepare them for life beyond school.

Child in green shirt looking at colorful map outdoors

Oakridge in Action

Every day unfolds across four distinct learning modes.

Connect

Values-driven personal development
I am becoming an empowered learner.
Conquer

Mastery-focused academics
I can learn anything with courage and patience.
Collaborate

Interactive inquiry-led discovery
I am an important part of something bigger than myself.
Create

Hands-on project-based learning
I use my learning in real and meaningful ways.