Last week, Middle School students embarked on their respective experiential learning trips, enthusiastic about exploring unfamiliar places that promised unique learning adventures.
Students in 7th Grade traveled to San Diego for Camp Surf. They had opportunities to take advantage of this location's natural beauty and wonder by participating in a full day of surfing, boogie boarding, and playing in the sand. The facility also offered archery, a rock-climbing wall, and a low ropes course. Throughout the week, these Trailblazers worked in teams and became more confident in their problem-solving abilities by engaging in initiatives that foster collaboration. They have forged bonds with their classmates and teachers, which will undoubtedly carry into the classroom as they return to campus to start the second quarter.
Meanwhile, 8th Grade students, who spend the year studying U.S. history, embarked on a trip to Washington, D.C. to bring classroom learning to life. Visiting historical monuments, museums, and government institutions deepened their understanding and appreciation of American history. This year's group was fortunate to receive invitations to tour the Capitol Building and the White House, providing them with an up-close and personal look at two branches of the U.S. Government. Visits to the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum allowed these Trailblazers to delve deeper and explore moments that helped shape our world today. They also enjoyed spending time at Ford's Theater and Mount Vernon. Solomon S. '28 shared, "I loved visiting George Washington's house at Mount Vernon. Visiting a site where history happened helped put me in the time period and walk in the footsteps of this important historical figure." Visiting our nation's capital made history more tangible, allowing our 8th graders to connect to our nation's past and enduring significance.
The tradition of taking 7th and 8th Grade students on week-long trips is a multifaceted approach to education that goes far beyond the classroom. It fosters a lifelong love of experiential learning and builds community and connections with peers and faculty.
#SCMiddleSchool #SCExperientialLearning
