Oxford University School

Why Choose Oxford University School

• Small Class Sizes

While our classes are limited to a maximum of 15 students, several are actually smaller, which means more undivided teacher attention for your child. Fewer students means that more material can be covered, while leaving time for in-depth class discussions, which further learning and understanding by allowing children to explore their own ideas.Small groups enable peer-to-peer learning, which empowers children to take ownership of their education and builds self-esteem. Small classes also mean that the necessary review of new materials happens largely in the classroom, reducing sharply the amount of homework assigned that would otherwise intrude on their outside enrichment activities and important imaginative free play. Small classes also mean higher intellectual achievement and allow for an advanced curriculum. According to a 1999 study by Mitchell & Mitchell, smaller classes in grades K through third grade improve student achievement in reading and math.

• Student Achievement

Every year we measure our students` performance carefully, using the Stanford Achievement Test, a standardized national test used by many private schools. We are proud of our strong results: our latest test scores for 2015 place OUS students a grade level ahead of comparable schools nationwide. We are also the only private school in the greater Lafayette area to beaccredited by both the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools (MAIS) andthe Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), which independently vouches for the high quality of our instruction, curriculum, facilities and staff. A Solid Foundation According to the Oxford Eagle's November 13, 2012 issue, 76 percent of Oxford`s public high school students are not adequately prepared for college. Laying the foundations for academic success, however, starts early, well before high school. Here at OUS we equip your child with the necessary knowledge and tools to succeed and train your child to think and work independently. Training good study habits early and turning children into avid readers are key to academic success. OUS students have gone on to win prestigious scholarships and gained entry to highly selective universities.

• Experienced Faculty

At OUS, each student is individually known and cared for by a highly trained and experienced faculty. More than 67 percent of our teachers and staff members hold or are currently working towards advanced degrees. They bring true enthusiasm and passion for their students` achievement to the job, while setting high standards and promoting excellence in a positive and encouraging environment.

• Limited Homework

Education experts have long criticized the enormous stress placed on primary school students by hours of homework in addition to long school days. We agree with the experts. That`s why we try to limit homework assignments, leaving enough time for daily reading and spelling exercises. Scientific evidence contradicts the commonly-held misconception that more homework equals more learning. In fact, studies show the opposite. Instead of sending review work home that has already been completed in the OUS classrooms, our students have time to focus on independent reading and special projects, while leaving enough time to be simply kids -- to run around and play at home. At OUS children`s needs come first and we have created a child-appropriate environment.

• More Recess

We do not believe in chaining children to their desks. Numerous studies show that children (and adults for that matter) learn better if they have breaks in between learning processes. We maximize our recess periods and take the children outside all-year round, which makes for healthier kids whose achievement is measurably higher in the classroom. Cutting recess time, as practiced by many schools, does not make room for more efficient learning time. Instead it simply results in unmotivated, tired students whose ability to learn and comprehend drops sharply. On the contrary, being exposed regularly to sun light and fresh air staves off possible depression in kids. But don`t just take our word for it.

• More Fun

Does your child really enjoy his or her current school We take great pride in the fact that our students actually like coming to OUS and enjoy learning here. They are excited to be able to communicate not only in English but also in Spanish, taught by a highly-qualified native speaker. Our school produces two plays a year that not only nurture our students` creativity, but also give them confidence to speak in public. Confidence, experts agree, is a major building block in high academic achievement because it makes children unafraid of tackling difficult and unfamiliar concepts.

• More Like Family

OUS is more a family than an institution. Students help one another, academically in the classroom as well as during recess, equipping them with solid social skills. Students cheer one another on; nobody gets laughed at for making a mistake, and bullies are not tolerated. The entire class takes pride in every classmate`s successes. Courteous and kind behavior is the norm at OUS and is part of the social skills that are daily modeled and reinforced by our teachers.

In a nutshell: Small class size, experienced teachers, maximum recess periods, limited homework, measurable high academic achievement, and a caring, kind environment, which is intellectually stimulating and emotionally secure, make Oxford University School a fun school that your child actually wants to be part of.