On November 1, we held the Second Annual Parent Education Fair at Oxford Elementary School. It was a huge success, with 80 attendees joining us for a dedicated morning of learning, connection, and community support. The turnout was amazing, and we are so happy to have had members from the community who share a heart for parenting come together to learn and grow.
The morning began with a lively performance by the OHS Jazz Band, featuring the song “Thriller” by Michael Jackson, which set a fun and energetic tone for the event.
Following the band performance, each attendee received a copy of The Anxious Generation in their welcome bag. The book tied into our keynote presentation by Judy Malinowski, which focused on supporting today’s children as they navigate anxiety and change. The keynote addressed how the rise of smartphones, social media, and overprotective parenting have contributed to a rewiring of childhood and an increase in mental health challenges. While today’s adolescents are struggling with these shifts, the presentation offered valuable tools and strategies to help parents support their children in this demanding and ever-changing world.
Leaving the keynote address, attendees were ready to have meaningful discussions. Our breakout sessions were filled with insightful conversations and practical takeaways for both families and educators. Speakers presented on a variety of topics ranging from cyber safety to stress management, allowing attendees to choose sessions that resonated with their own experiences and provided useful insights to take forward.
The event concluded with closing remarks and a sense of gratitude for an inspiring and educational morning. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our dedicated team, whose hard work made this event such a meaningful experience!
The Parent Education Fair would not have been possible without the support of our generous sponsors and community partners.
Oxford Early Learning Center provided childcare for 40 students, allowing families to fully participate in the sessions and keynote address.
Oxford-Addison Youth Assistance funded childcare, provided pizza for children and staff, and sponsored two of our featured speakers.
North Oakland Community Coalition covered the keynote and three additional speakers and donated a $200 gift card to the PTO and school with the highest attendance. Congratulations to Daniel Axford for winning the award.
A special thank you also goes to our local businesses for donating items for our gift basket giveaway. Events like this are only possible through the continued support of our community partners, and we appreciate their generosity.
Funky Monkey Toys
CFE Roasters
Evergreens Coffee and Bakeshop
Magic Brownie Box
Sick Pizza
Oxford Wildcat Boosters Club
Clean Hub Car Wash
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed. Together, we made this event a success and we look forward to next year!