Skip To Main Content
divider

Signature Academic Experiences

At Red Oaks, distinctive experiences deepen learning and build confidence. Find out  about overnight trips, student-led conferences, the 8th Grade Community Project – and other ways that make students love school.

IB in Action: The Community Project

Every eighth grader at Red Oaks completes a year-long Community Project rooted in a personal talent, passion, or interest — and designed to benefit the wider community. We believe the most meaningful projects come from genuine investment, so students choose topics that truly matter to them. Using a Design Thinking framework, they meet weekly with the Community Project Coordinator to explore ideas, shape a plan, track progress, troubleshoot challenges, and think deeply along the way.

Just as importantly, the process makes room for setbacks — an original idea may produce unexpected results or simply not work out — teaching students that this kind of productive failure, when paired with reflection and iteration, is part of real growth. Projects range from raising awareness around issues like homelessness and food insecurity to sharing personal strengths in ways that serve others, such as teaching soccer skills to younger students or playing piano for patients at a local hospital. The Community Project captures the heart of the IB philosophy, integrating communication, collaboration, research, self-management, and critical and creative thinking skills. At the end of the year, students present their work to the school community.

 

Student Led Conferences

Beginning in the elementary years, student-led conferences provide additional opportunities for growth as children reflect on their strengths, accomplishments, and areas for improvement. They present their work to their parents and a teacher or advisor by tapping into their self-management skills in age-appropriate ways to articulate their milestones and goals (younger students share their “glows” and “grows”). By creating a culture where children are respected, valued, and profoundly connected to the community, Red Oaks enables students to mature with composure and perspective beyond their years.

Red Oaks Model UN Conference

Spring 2027: Date TBA

Red Oaks is excited to partner with the Institute for Domestic and International Affairs (IDIA) at Rutgers University to bring you our fourth annual Middle School Model United Nations Conference in the spring of 2027! Further details and registration information coming soon. 

With topics and papers specially tailored for a range of experience levels—from beginners to advanced delegates—students will have a substantive and engaging experience in Model UN. The Rutgers volunteers prepare materials that ensure all students are challenged and supported, making this a perfect introduction for newcomers and a great opportunity for seasoned participants.

Leading up to the event, students will prepare through 7 interactive sessions, where they’ll research their assigned topic, write position papers, and get ready to advocate for their solutions at the conference. On March 28, delegates will dive into discussions, negotiation, and conflict resolution, all while honing their public speaking, debate, and persuasion skills. Students will be immersed in real-world global issues, working collaboratively to find solutions through compromise and strategy.

This conference is an incredible opportunity for both beginners and experienced delegates, offering valuable hands-on learning in a supportive environment. The Red Oaks Model United Nations Team is excited to host your school for this dynamic event—get ready for an enriching day of collaboration, leadership, and global awareness!