What to Expect at KO’s Upcoming Upper School Fireside Chat

Choosing the right high school is a major decision—and it’s important to get a genuine feel for the people, programs, and culture that will shape your child’s experience. Kingswood Oxford’s Upper School Fireside Chat is designed exactly for that.

Rather than a large, formal open house, this event is a more intimate, one-hour gathering where families can connect face-to-face with the leaders who shape student life, academics, arts, athletics, and overall well-being.

Below is everything you can expect when you attend.

A Warm Welcome From the Head of the Upper School
Lisa Loeb, Head of the Upper School, will kick things off with a brief talk about the school’s educational philosophy—rooted in KO’s mission and values.

She’ll highlight:

Academic Approach & Signature Programs – Lisa will discuss our challenging academics and our innovative IMPACT Program, a multidisciplinary program that combines academic content with real-world application. Example: An upcoming pollinator-focused class blends farming, science, field trips, gardening, and problem-solving to show students how academic concepts play out in the world.

Baird English Symposium – a longstanding KO tradition where a nationally and internationally recognized, living author is invited to campus. Students and faculty read, study, and engage with the author’s work in meaningful ways, culminating in school-wide talks, classes, and community events.

Goodman Banks Arts Signature Program – the school brings in talent from around the country to workshop with our students

Student Life, Wellness & Belonging
Next, you’ll hear from Kata Baker, dean of students, who oversees all things student life—from advisory to co-curriculars.

Advisory Program
Every student belongs to a small advisory group that meets regularly to build relationships, receive guidance, and feel supported.

Wellness & Life Skills Classes. KO recognizes the importance of mental health and personal development.

Students receive:

• Organizational skills and academic strategies (9th Grade Life Skills)
• Guidance on communication and relationship-building
• Junior-year college counseling preparation
• Social-emotional support tailored to their developmental stage

KO’s Director of DEIB, Rich Mutts, plays a key role in ensuring every student—regardless of background—feels a sense of belonging. This work is woven into advisory, wellness, activities, and community programs. 

Athletics & Co-Curricular Opportunities
Athletics Director Josh Balabuck and Performing Arts Chair Kyle Reynolds will also be present. At KO, after-school participation is required—but “co-curricular” means much more than sports. We believe in after-school engagement because students grow outside the classroom—through teamwork, leadership, collaboration, and friendship.

Options include:

• Traditional sports (soccer, basketball, football, etc.)
• Intramurals like pickleball and casual basketball
• Performing Arts: fall play, winter musical, dance programs
• Esports: a varsity-level, coached program with physical conditioning and opportunities to compete nationally

Hear Directly From Students

One of the highlights of the event is hearing from current students, who will speak candidly about: academics, athletics, & arts

advisory, school culture, and what surprised them most about KO. Families will have the chance to ask their own questions in a relaxed setting.

Learn More About College Counseling That Begins Early
KO has three full-time college counselors and a fourth part-time specialist. Students are assigned their counselor at the end of 10th grade, but support is available earlier for any family that wants guidance.  There is a full curriculum in the 11th grade for the college selection process.

The team hosts:

• Monthly coffee hours
• Info sessions on financial aid, applications, and admissions trends
• 1:1 meetings available throughout the year
• KO’s approach is highly individualized and deeply supportive.

Learn About Service Learning and Living Our Core Value of “Care Beyond Self”

Students must complete 60 hours of service learning to graduate, though many far exceed this. A Service Learning Coordinator helps students track hours and discover meaningful projects.

Popular service opportunities include:

• Habitat for Humanity
  Soup kitchens and food pantries
  Environmental work with Traprock Ridge
• Holiday events for the MD Fox School
• American Red Cross initiatives

Learn About our Deeply Engaged Parent Community
Because KO is a day school, families are very involved, if they want to be. Our administration and P.A. actively cultivates these connections. You’ll see parents and grandparents at games, concerts, theater productions, and community events. Parents also support exam-week snacks (“The Zone”), prom planning, trivia nights, and more. We believe the stronger the connection between home and school, the more successful the student will be.

Event Details: Fireside Chat
December 10
7:00 PM The new Commons Building
RSVP by clicking on this link.

This is a conversational, cozy event designed for families who have already toured—or those who will schedule a tour afterward. There is no formal tour during the Fireside Chat.

Deadlines & Financial Aid
Upper School Application Deadline: January 15, 2026

Financial Aid Application (Clarity): Also due January 15

54% of KO families receive financial assistance, reflecting the school’s commitment to accessibility.

Final Thoughts
KO’s Fireside Chat is a wonderful opportunity to go beyond the brochure-level view and truly experience what makes the school special. You’ll meet the people who guide students every day, hear from those currently thriving in the program, and walk away with a clear sense of whether KO feels like home for your family.