Retreats and Trips
In early February, our 8th grade class (accompanied by four faculty chaperones) spends a week at the Yosemite Institute. This annual program consists of two days above the snowline at the Crane Flat facilities on the Tioga Pass Road. Nature study, group challenges, and snow play are the order of the day. Then the class is bussed down to the Yosemite Valley floor where they are assigned group cabins at Curry Village. Guided hikes and journalizing focus on the geology, flora and fauna, and cultural history of the area. Typically, the Institute leader/guides are so impressed with the knowledge and maturity of our students that they offer them more advanced programs. The individual personal growth as well as the class bonding, which occur, makes such outdoor education an invaluable part of the school curriculum.