May 10, 2019

From our earliest days, our school’s founders hoped that our students would develop a connection with nature, and our traditional overnight trips to Catoctin Quaker Camp began. This month, our K and 1/2 classes will hike, participate in activities, cook together, and deepen friendships—students and parents alike. Catoctin is a wonderful culminating event in the spring for our primary grades.

 

While our 3/4 classes are not taking an overnight trip in the spring, their all-day trip to SERC (Smithsonian Environmental Research Center) helps develop their understanding of environmental issues, marine life, and the importance of a healthy Chesapeake Bay. The week after next, our newest middle-school students, the 5th Grade, will bond at Camp Friendship and our 6th grade will further their exploration of green architecture at Fallingwater.

 

On Wednesday morning, our 7th graders departed on an outdoor adventure led by Experience Learning, in which they will hike, camp, and explore the picturesque mountain ranges of West Virginia. Meanwhile, our 8th graders, after months of prioritizing goals, planning, building consensus, and fundraising, ultimately came to the decision that their culminating field trip would be an exploration of Philadelphia. Philly offers many opportunities to explore Quaker and colonial history, art, historic meetinghouses, and distinctive foods.

 

In progressive schools, we know that children learn in many different ways and environments. When we consider field trips, we think about curricular connections, cultural opportunities, community building, and enriching service opportunities. Outside of the comfort of their classrooms, students find new interests, deepen friendships, and broaden their understanding of the world. Special thanks to the many parent volunteers who drive and chaperone these outings.

 

In Peace,

Larry