Experiential Learning: Retreats

students walk on a trail in Pt Reyes

Experience, challenge and reflection. When combined, their alliance creates constructive space for dynamic growth. At the start of each school year, every grade embarks on retreats. More than outings: these excursions have purpose: they create space for personal and social growth. In these moments, students make valuable discoveries about themselves and their relationships. Time and time again, we witness the emergence of resilient connections among peers, and a mutual-respect environment between students and faculty, who now know each other outside of the classroom.

Past Retreats

  • Camping, Kayaking, and Exploring Channel Islands
  • Camping and Exploring Monaña de Oro SP
  • Camping and Hiking Point Reyes Nat'l Seashore
  • Washington DC
  • Chicago
  • Backpacking Desolation Wilderness
  • Backpacking Yosemite
  • River Rafting on the American River
  • Camping and Tidepooling at Costanoa

We expect students to have moments of frustration and difficulty that teamwork, reason or mindfulness can overcome. We also aspire to have each student encounter some experience, interpersonal challenge or new perspective that elates or inspires them. The importance of these moments may not be evident to them until later, but we have confidence that our curriculum is carefully designed to give each student a chance to stretch, grow and make connections.