The word “partnership” is used a lot in education, especially among private schools. You’ve probably seen it several times as you’ve searched for schools in the Spartanburg area. But have you seen it defined? Do you have a clear picture of what it would look like to partner with a school in your child’s education?
At Oakbrook Preparatory School, we want to be clear about what we mean when we say “partnership.” Families considering Oakbrook should know how we work together with parents and students toward common goals. That’s why we’ve created a Portrait of a Partnership.
Before we explore the attributes of a successful educational partnership, it’s important to acknowledge that, as much as we want every child to excel, our educational model is not the right fit for every family. So, let’s take a moment to clarify who Oakbrook is not for:
We believe that it’s better to be on the same page early than to hope to get on the same page once a family is already enrolled.
So, what does a successful educational partnership at Oakbrook look like? Our Portrait of a Partnership outlines the five mutual commitments between the home and school.
The family’s commitment:
We partner with families who want their child to be educated from a biblical worldview — and who esteem Christian values and will encourage their child to fully participate in the school’s approaches. This alignment between home and school helps students thrive academically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Oakbrook’s commitment:
The family’s commitment:
At Oakbrook, we welcome families who demonstrate a commitment to their child’s academic growth by actively engaging in their education, supporting homework and study habits, and encouraging a love of learning. Students who are well-supported by their families bring a dynamic energy to our school and thrive in our challenging yet supportive academic environment that prepares them for college and calling.
Oakbrook’s commitment:
"Our daughter started her kindergarten year at Oakbrook in the fall of 2020. We chose Oakbrook because it offered consistency and normalcy during a year full of chaos, masks and hybrid schedules. The plan was to return to public school when things returned to normal, but it wasn’t far into the school year before my husband and I both knew that this is where we were supposed to be. I’m still impressed with the academics and most importantly, the foundation of Christian principles that are instilled throughout every facet of the Oakbrook experience. My husband and I are appreciative for this partnership and passionate about Oakbrook’s mission. We are committed to Oakbrook because Oakbrook has proven to be committed to us."
-The Cutherbertson Family
The family’s commitment:
Community involvement and service help foster connections that enrich your child’s educational experience and develop responsible citizens. That’s why families are encouraged to participate in school events, volunteer, model community service, and demonstrate the value of contributing to the greater good.
Oakbrook’s commitment:
"Oakbrook has some of the best teachers around and holds high academic standards with supports for students who need them. The school also provides fantastic opportunities for students to explore extracurricular interests—not putting students in a box and limiting them to athletics or arts, but instead encouraging them to try all areas and discover new talents. As a parent, I have found my people at Oakbrook. Parent involvement is deeply welcomed here. Oakbrook is a blessing to my family, and I’m so thankful we are able to be part of this amazing community.”
-The O'Shields Family
"As a parent, I am thrilled we made the decision to send our son to Oakbrook! From the first tour to the first day of school, the staff went above and beyond to make sure our son’s transition was smooth and successful. The teachers are very personable and dedicated to helping our son learn, achieve, and succeed. Their Christ-like influence, support, and encouragement to the students is a blessing! Our family loves being a part of the Oakbrook community."
-The Potter Family
The family’s commitment:
Parents who approach interactions with empathy and grace, especially during challenging situations, create a positive atmosphere at Oakbrook. This allows for constructive dialogue, helps resolve issues, and sets a valuable example for students — teaching them the importance of compassion, understanding, and collaboration.
Oakbrook’s commitment:
The family’s commitment:
At Oakbrook Preparatory School, we partner with families who understand and fulfill their financial obligations — and who engage in open dialogue regarding tuition, fees, and financial planning. This support ensures that high-quality Christian education will be available for generations of students in the Spartanburg area.
Oakbrook’s commitment:
"Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers."
