Oak Knoll Breaks Ground on ‘Our Second Century’ Campus Vision

Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child has officially broken ground on its “Our Second Century” campus vision — a major milestone shaped by years of planning to enhance learning, wellness, and community for current and future students.

More than 650 attendees — including members of the school’s Board of Trustees, community partners, students, faculty, staff, administrators, and local leaders — gathered on campus to celebrate the milestone. The ceremony featured remarks from school leadership, the Mayor, faculty, and students, as well as a blessing by the Very Reverend Larry Evans, II V.F., Pastor at St. Rose of Lima Church in Short Hills and a longtime friend of Oak Knoll.

Oak Knoll Head of School Jennifer G. Landis described the project as a reflection of the school’s collaborative vision and shared commitment to creating spaces that support students in mind, body, and spirit while meeting the wants of the age.

“This project reflects a deep commitment to our students and to creating an environment where they can grow, lead, and thrive,” she said. “It is both a reflection of who we are and an investment in who our students are becoming.”

The project includes new and renovated academic spaces, an innovation lab, thoughtfully designed gathering areas that foster connection and collaboration, and expanded wellness and athletic facilities. These enhancements are designed to support the whole child — intellectually, physically, and spiritually — while preparing students to make a meaningful impact in the world.

Oak Knoll Board of Trustees Chair Stephen Loughrey highlighted the project’s impact on students and the broader school experience: “We’re not just laying bricks and pouring concrete — we’re building a home for your biggest ideas, your loudest cheers, and your toughest challenges.”

City of Summit Mayor Elizabeth Fagan underscored the importance of the project to the broader community: “Oak Knoll is a gem in our city,” she said. “We are very, very lucky to have you as part of our community, and I look forward to supporting the future of this project.”

Speakers throughout the ceremony reflected on the importance of community and legacy, particularly as the school builds on the momentum of its 100th anniversary, which was celebrated during the 2024–2025 school year. They emphasized that while Oak Knoll’s strength has always been rooted in its people, these new spaces will further enrich the student experience for generations to come.

The effort, which began in the 2020-2021 school year, has involved extensive collaboration with partners including NK Architects, Dynamic Engineering, Natoli Construction, CCS Fundraising, and ConnectOne Bank. Construction is now underway, with phased development planned over the coming years. To learn more about “Our Second Century,” visit www.oakknoll.org/about-us/our-second-century.

Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child is an independent Catholic school rooted in purpose and intentionally designed to support students at each transformative stage of education. The school is coeducational from pre-kindergarten through grade six and all-girls in grades seven through 12. Through a dynamic academic program that emphasizes faith, leadership, and global responsibility, Oak Knoll prepares students to grow with purpose and make a meaningful impact in the world.

For more information, visit www.oakknoll.org or call 908-522-8109.