The year 2019 brought us so many blog topics — from the disturbing Momo Challenge that ended up being a hoax to the College Admissions Scandal and so much more. The blog team at Oak Knoll looked back at the top posts that resonated with our loyal readers to bring you this roundup of the top 10 blog posts of 2019.
1. Turning a Viral Hoax into a Lesson on Internet Safety
Posted March 4, 2019
The year 2019 brought us the “Momo Challenge,” or alleged disturbing hidden messages found in Youtube videos. Many were calling for technology companies to police their systems to protect kids. This post dives into ways you can tell a hoax from reality with practical advice on how to deal with these types of reports in the future.
2. Why I’m Not Surprised by the ‘College Admissions Scandal’
Posted March 25, 2019
One of the biggest stories around the world this year was the so-called "College Admissions Scandal," whereby the U.S. Department of Justice charged several people in an alleged scheme to bribe their way into some of the nation’s most selective colleges. This case has captured the attention of many – especially college-bound students and their parents. Oak Knoll's Director of College Counseling reflects on the issue and why she wasn't surprised it happened in the first place.
3. 2019 Tech Gift Guide for Kids
Posted November 25, 2019
Another memo to Santa was left on the Oak Knoll School Helpdesk printer in 2019 just in time for Black Friday! This post reviews the top educational tech gifts for kids this year.
4. Building Confidence in Middle School Girls
Posted April 8, 2019
This post dives into the middle school confidence gap — the decline of girls' self-esteem compared to male counterparts — and the role puberty and social media play in lowering confidence.
5. Benefits of Parent-Teacher Relationships
Posted February 21, 2019
With increasing pressures and challenges on students today, it’s important that schools and parents forge a bond to become partners in education. This post looks at ideal partnerships that include regular, open communication between home and school; a respectful climate where everyone feels safe; and active parent involvement in school community activities.
6. 5 Ways Student-Athletes Can Boost Self Confidence
Student-athletes may feel a sense of insecurity or self-doubt when they step on the field or the court. It may be jitters associated with playing in a big game, playing a new position or simply returning to the field after the off-season. This post reviews five strategies for student-athletes to boost self-confidence.
7. How to Talk to Your Child about Mental Health
Posted April 22, 2019
This post dives into the delicacies and intricacies associated with the ways parents respond to teen and adolescent issues.
8. Tips for Conquering Your High School Visit Day
Posted October 31, 2019
A helpful guide from the admissions office for students in eighth grade looking to attend a high school visit day in preparation of making the switch to a new school.
9. Why I Give Back to Oak Knoll
Posted December 2, 2019
One family's beautiful take on why they choose to give back to their child's school.
10. What it Means to Have a Growth Mindset
Posted October 17, 2019
If you’re an educator or have been near an educational institution over the last few years, you’ve most likely heard the phrase ‘Growth Mindset.’ It seems to be the new buzz word as of late. But what exactly does it mean? This post dives into the meaning, why it is so important and if you don’t have one, how to get one.
