Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child

Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child is an independent Catholic school and a member of the Holy Child Network of Schools. Founded in 1924 by the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, it aims to provide a comprehensive education rooted in the principles of Simplicity, Humility, and Charity.

Mission and Values

The school's mission is to cultivate the gifts and talents of each student, inspiring them to discover their purpose and make a positive impact on the world. Oak Knoll's philosophy is grounded in the teachings of Cornelia Connelly, the founder of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, emphasizing the development of intellectual, spiritual, physical, and emotional abilities.

Structure and Programs

Oak Knoll serves boys and girls in a coeducational Lower School from pre-K to grade 6 and offers an all-girls Upper School for grades 7-12. The all-girls environment in the Upper School fosters a supportive community where students can express themselves freely and reach their full potential. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities and athletic programs.

History

The founding of Oak Knoll was a culmination of the vision that began when Cornelia Connelly established the Society of the Holy Child Jesus in England in 1846. The American Province of the Society acquired the Larned Estate in Summit, New Jersey, transforming it into Oak Knoll School, which welcomed its first students in 1924. Since then, the school has grown with significant milestones, including the establishment of various facilities and programs over the years.

Milestones and Celebrations

In 2024, Oak Knoll marked its 100th anniversary with a series of events, including an inter-divisional choir performance and an all-school Mass of Thanksgiving at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark. This milestone not only celebrated the school's history but also signaled its transition into the second century with renewed commitment to its mission.

Leadership and Community

Oak Knoll has been led by several Heads of School throughout its history, including Sister Jean O'Meara, who was the first to hold the position, and Jennifer G. Landis, its current head. The school maintains strong ties with the broader Holy Child community, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose among students, faculty, and alumni.