The Partner Program at The Oaks Academy gives the broader Indianapolis community an opportunity to participate in the life of the school through financial support and the development of friendships that serve to support students in their scholastic efforts.
This school year more than 70% of Oaks students receive scholarship assistance, most of which is provided by our Partners. Without this help, those families would be unable to attend The Oaks.
Individual Partners invest a minimum of $2000 to supports one student for an academic year. Many invest multiples of that base level to extend support to additional students.
Business Partnerships are priced on a sliding scale according to company size and desired level of involvement. They start at $2500 and range up toward $50,000 to support an entire classroom.
Partners at The Oaks Academy who make a charitable donation may visit school three times a year to participate in Partner Morning. Partner Morning connects students and Partners through a classroom activity that reflects The Oaks’ unique curriculum. Attendance is optional, yet we encourage this engagement as it enriches students and Partners alike.
Join us for Partner Morning!
Here's what to expect when you join us for these special mornings: Partners enjoy a brief welcome from the head of school and then spend time doing a planned activity with their student partner(s) in the classroom. It's a great opportunity to participate in the life of the school and experience the investment of an Oaks education. Partner Mornings are scheduled from 9-10:30am typically scheduled three times during the school year during the fall, winter and spring.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I refer a friend?
The best way to help The Oaks find additional Partners is for you to personally bring them to Partner Morning. When you provide us with their name, we will mail the necessary information to the next Partner Morning. We will pair you and your guest with children in the same class.
If you would like to refer someone to us who could become a Partner, please the Advancement Office at 317.415.5313 or email us.
Should I spend time with my student partner beyond regularly scheduled Partner events?
Partner Mornings offer Partners a wonderful opportunity to develop a relationship with an Oaks studenr. Spending time with a student outside of the school is not permitted unless it's done within the context of a classroom event such as a field trip.
May I bring gifts to my student?
The greatest gift Partners can give is the gift of themselves and their time. We ask that Partners refrain from giving gifts or money to their student. Gifts that the entire class can enjoy, such as cookies or a pizza party, are permissible and encouraged.
My student partner has invited me to his home to meet his family. Should I go?
This is not permitted. Home visits, either to the student's home or the Partner's home, are beyond the intended purpose of the Partner Program.
May I exchange phone numbers with my student partner?
To protect the privacy of the partner and the student's family we discourage communication outside of school sponsored activities. You are always welcome to send your student a note of inspiration and encouragement in care of the Advancement Office at The Oaks.
Can I take my student partner to visit my place of work or out to lunch?
It is preferred that the primary contact between you and your student be done at the school; however, Partners have taken an entire classroom of students to an event or for a workplace visit. If you are interested in hosting a group of students, please contact the Development Office. Students are not allowed off campus during lunch time. You are always welcome to have lunch with your student during a regular lunch period at the school.
What should I do if I am unable to attend a Partner Morning and wish to tell my student partner that I am thinking of her or him?
A great thing to do is to find a substitute who could come in your place and spend time with your student. You may also want to write a note to your student explaining that you will not be able to attend, but you are thinking of them. You should address the note to your student in care of the Advancement Office and it will be passed along to your student.