MEET THE CARTER FAMILY
Why did you choose OCA as a school for your children?
In 2011, our oldest son Dani was in kindergarten at Yeshivat Rambam when the school announced that it would be closing. Very quickly we heard about a new school that was opening in the Fall called Ohr Chadash Academy. It was a little scary sending our child to a school that was conceptualized and created in about 3 months. But, when we dug down deeper into the mission and hashkafa of what the founders were proposing, we realized that a school like OCA was still very much needed in Baltimore, and if we believed it, we needed to support it and sign up for it. So, we did!
What do you love most about OCA?
It is really impossible to pick just one thing that we love most. The top-notch and caring staff, the sense of community and camaraderie among the OCA families, the love of learning that is instilled in our children, the sports teams, the opportunity to volunteer and contribute in a meaningful way… we could keep going all day.
How has OCA positively impacted your children/family?
OCA has been a part of our family for so long that it is almost hard to think about life without it! Two of our children graduated from OCA and our third will be starting middle school at OCA in the fall. Our children are each very different from one another in personality, academic strengths, and learning styles. Yet, each one has thrived at OCA. The teachers are able to hone in on what makes each student tick and ensure that their individual needs are being met. OCA has also helped them develop a strong sense of confidence and the ability to self-advocate which are skills that they will take with them throughout their educational journey and beyond.
Where does your family daven?
We are members of Ner Tamid and Shomrei Emunah.
Anything else you’d like to share?
In additional to sending our children to OCA, we have loved getting involved in the school as volunteers and definitely encourage everyone to do the same. There are so many great things that happen at OCA and the parent body is such a great asset. Even something that isn’t very time consuming like running a booth at a picnic is a huge help and ensures the success of OCA’s programs. Plus, it is a great opportunity to meet new people who you may not otherwise interact with while having fun at the same time! Win-win!