Matt Burgy, Head of School
September 12, 2025
Dear Oakridge Family,
For those we haven’t yet had the pleasure of meeting, we’re P.J. and Michele Meitl, proud parents of Leighton, a fifth grader who began Oakridge in first grade. After visiting five different schools and diving deep into research on academics, arts, and athletics, Oakridge stood out to us—not just on paper, but in spirit. We felt it the moment we stepped onto campus: this was the right place for our family, and the community where we wanted Leighton to grow. That instinct has proven true—Oakridge has become our home.
Over the years, Leighton has flourished. She’s been guided by teachers who challenge and inspire her, surrounded by friends and families who lift her up, and immersed in programs that have helped her lead, explore, and evolve into the remarkable young woman she is today. We’re excited to watch her continue to grow over the next eight years at Oakridge.
As we’ve become more involved, we’ve come to understand how vital the Oakridge Fund is to the school’s success. Like most independent schools, tuition alone doesn’t cover the full cost of operating and advancing Oakridge. The Oakridge Fund is a significant factor in bridging that gap—and we’re honored to lead this year’s campaign.
We want to start by showing you how your contributions make a real, tangible impact. Last year’s Oakridge Fund supported critical upgrades that benefit every student: Security - a monitored keyless entry system to the Information Center, 3D Media classroom equipment, 40+ Professional Development Opportunities for Faculty/Staff/Administrators, just to highlight a few. Your generosity fuels these advancements, and we look forward to sharing even more examples in the weeks ahead.
This year’s campaign launches on Sept. 18, which is North Texas Giving Day, and builds momentum through Homecoming. Donations can be made via the Oakridge Website or the click-to-pay options below.
Show your support of The Oakridge School by making a gift today. Ask your company to double your donation by matching your gift - MANY companies have a matching gift program.
Our goals as Oakridge Fund chairs are:
- Increase the number of participating families by 15%
- Increase the number of new families making a gift
- Increase Alumni participation by 10%
- Increase the total dollars raised by 10%
Stay tuned for exciting announcements about new ways students will be able to participate in the excitement of the Oakridge Fund - without asking for money!
In conclusion, we understand that every family’s ability to give is different. But participation—at any level—is essential. Grant-making organizations look closely at how many Oakridge families contribute, and your involvement strengthens Oakridge’s ability to secure outside funding. We know it’s a big ask, especially given your ongoing and already immense support through tuition, volunteering, and countless other efforts. But we also know this community rises to every occasion.
We also feel it's critical that we be as transparent as possible with the fundraising and answer any questions you may have. To the extent any of you have questions, feel free to call PJ at 202-494-6453 or email at pjmeitl@gmail.com. Thank you for making Oakridge the extraordinary place it is.
Warmly,
P.J., Michele, and Leighton Meitl
