Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

With OAKTON's unique system of education there are bound to be questions, so we have put together this list of frequently asked questions. At the end, if your question still isn't answered, let us know by asking your question in the form at the bottom of the page.

Who is OAKTON for?

OAKTON is for families looking for alternative educational options that encourage the love of learning, practical skills, critical and creative thinking. Our offerings range from a la carte classes to flexible home school support, to affordable full-time private school options.
What is a Hybrid School?

A hybrid school can fulfill the needs of the home school family who would like support and guidance and may only attend 1 or multiple days a week OR The family looking for a full time educational experience who attends the full week. A hybrid school also uses flexible schedules and different educational philosophies. In essence, it brings together the things that makes education work for students and their families.
Where is OAKTON located?

OAKTON is located in the quiet community of Overton, Texas at 302 E. South Street. We chose Overton because of the wonderful people, the small town environment, and Overton is a central hub to many towns here in East Texas. We are only 20 minutes or less from: Chapel Hill, Liberty City, Kilgore, Henderson, Arp, Troup, Sexton City and New London! And only 30 minutes or less from everything between Longview and Tyler!
What is the flex schedule?

The flex schedule was designed with today's family needs in mind. It allows your family to start, stop and restart when necessary. Have to go on a family vacation or just take a break? Go for it. We will pick up where they left off. You are now less on a school's schedule, and more on yours. It allows you to determine how much time you wish your student to attend, and when. They can come in the mornings, afternoons or both. They can come from 1 half day all the way to 5 full days a week. The schedule runs in two four-hour blocks from 8:00am until noon then 1:00pm until 5:00pm, in order to be conducive to most work schedules. It is also designed to provide a quality, cost-effective education accomplished in a way that gives parents more time for imparting the faith and values they hold precious.
Why half days?

Half days, or blocks, has many benefits. We can cover a lot of information in a short amount of time. It keeps the students busy and "on their toes" without letting them get into trouble. Research has shown longer school days do not produce educational benefits. It actually suggests the opposite. If someone misses their morning or evening group they can join in on the opposite half day group. People are natural learners, we enjoy it! It allows free time for students to use the techniques they learn at OAKTON and apply them on their own interests. It allows for a year round schedule without the burnout Students do not need to spend the last month of a school year getting ready to leave and another month at the beginning readjusting. Students don't break their rhythm during the summer. It fixes the homework problem. Students are expected to continue their studies at home during the off hours. Then when parents come home they should stop their studies and spend time with family.
Does OAKTON provide lunch?

No. If your student is attending all day there will be time for lunch, but they will need to provide their own. Students are welcome to bring water bottles to class.
Does OAKTON offer trials?

Yes! We are happy for prospective families to participate in classes with us for a week. This way your family can experience an OAKTON education so you can decide if it is right for your family. Register for your trial week today!
Is OAKTON accredited?

No, and yes. Referring to a certification granted by the state, the answer is no, and we prefer it that way. Being accredited means that an instructor or institution has been officially authorized or approved to meet certain standards of quality and credibility, but by whom? Usually, it is by an unknown bureaucracy. With the growing remedial education being performed at colleges across the country, we feel that state accreditation has not quite lived up to the hype and has proven more expensive for families. That's why we prefer our accreditation agency. OAKTON has been officially authorized or approved to meet certain standards of quality and credibility by our families, meaning that they have recognized OAKTON's ability to work with them in helping their children reach their fullest potential.
Are the instructors certified?

Referring to a certification granted by the state, our instructors may or may not be certified by the state. Having a state certified instructor can be of great benefit but we feel there is more to an instructor. Being accredited means that an instructor or institution has been officially authorized or approved to meet certain standards of quality and credibility, but by whom? Usually, it is by an unknown bureaucracy. Our instructors are certified by the standards of the administrators and parents of OAKTON, meaning that they have demonstrated the ability to inspire students to reach their fullest potential.
What ages do we serve at OAKTON?

We serve the 5-18 age ranges (K-12). We also offer adult classes on select dates.
How are disciplinary issues handled at OAKTON?

Disciplinary measures are handled by the student and their parents. While we do take efforts to address minor issues and teach students how to address problems, it would be inconsiderate to the other students to take any considerable time away from the rest of them.
What is the curriculum at OAKTON?

From phonics to philosophy and everything in-between. Most "subjects" are integrated with history as a guide so that students can build a more comprehensive understanding of how they are associated and clearly see the relationships between them and how they came about, not just what they are. Not only does our curriculum exceed federal and state requirements, but our curriculum includes all subject matter to become good, complete, responsible citizens who love God, their community/country, who honors their family, learns how to find truth, goodness, beauty and communicate effectively in all forms to be an inspiration and leader to others. For a list of courses, click here.
What is the teaching style at OAKTON?

Our teaching style is "what works" for the student. This means that our teachers use different methods from Montessori, Charlotte Mason, and Classical, to name a few. Not everyone learns the same way at the same time, so we do not fit all students in the same box. Different teaching styles work better at different ages, and we ask our instructors to use their skills to determine what style will work best for their students.
What are the class sizes?

Our student to instructor ratio never exceeds 10:1. This allows for a deeper interaction with the student and places quality over quantity.
What about testing?

Testing is very efficient in gauging a group of students but testing can be manipulated and not deliver the best findings. Some students are great test takers but don't know much about the topic; and some students know a lot about the material but freeze on the test. While we can give tests upon request, OAKTON prefers to perform assessments. We work with each student and individually assess their performance and knowledge in their studies. We also have the students "teach" what they have learned to their peers. You tend to learn more when you teach something and it also reveals whether the student knows the material.
Why does OAKTON use phases rather than grade levels?

Grade levels encourage isolation by age and though it is efficient this is not reflective of the real world and research suggests that it is counter-intuitive to learning. It might be common for a student to read at a fifth grade level, proficient in math at the second grade level and is in the third grade. That is why we use lower and upper age groups. This allows for a reasonable age range that mirrors cognitive development and allows students to excel when they can and take time on a course when they need to.
What if a student doesn't know the material?

It depends on the material but since we do not group by grades, we do not have the necessity to socially promote a student. For example, in history and science we will visit the material again and again in cycles so the student will have other opportunities at a later time when they are more receptive. Mathematics is different. It is foundational. Many people struggle with mathematics simply because they "had to move on" with the rest of the class whether they understood it or not and you cannot build anything sturdy on a weak foundation. In foundational classes, like mathematics, if the student does not master the lesson, they continue working on it until they do. We attack it from different angles until they understand. We do them a great disservice by advancing them without mastering.
How much does it cost to attend OAKTON?

Educational offerings at OAKTON range from just $199 a month to $599 a month, depending on your needs. This price is all inclusive and includes all materials, books and fees. Enrichment Day classes start at $25. Please refer to our tuition page where you should be able to find more about our pricing in detail.
Are there any contracts at OAKTON?

No. We feel that contracts take away your freedom of choice. Our constant improvement and great results in your child's instruction should be what keeps you returning to OAKTON.
How often do I pay tuition?

Tuition is accepted on a monthly basis and can be paid with cash, check or card.