Dear Parents of Eighth Graders,
We are looking forward to the eighth grade outdoor adventure on Wednesday, September 28, through Friday, September 30. This three-day, two-night excursion is an important facet of the Middle School program. Through our collaboration with InnerQuest, the eighth graders will learn to set up their own camp, cook their own meals in the outdoors, and assume a variety of leadership roles. In small groups, the girls will tackle problem-solving initiatives, a ropes course, rock climbing and rappelling, and canoeing.
One guiding belief of our outdoor education program is that we often learn more about ourselves when we push our comfort limits. Many of the girls have never tried anything like these experiences, and this trip offers opportunities for the girls to learn more about themselves and their peers. In a day and age when fewer and fewer tasks require personal interaction, this trip allows the girls to slow down, to leave all of the trappings of school behind, and to enjoy each other's company in a setting quite different from the MS hallways.
The success of this trip is largely dependent upon thorough preparation; therefore, we ask that you adhere to the packing list and return the appropriate forms (Holton permission form and InnerQuest waiver) to the Middle School office no later than Friday, September 23. Please note: on the InnerQuest waiver, you do not need to attach a copy of a physical exam. (We will attach a copy of the exam report that you have already provided to the School, so there is no need to return to the doctor.)
On Wednesday, September 28, the girls should arrive at the regular time to school dressed casually with all of their gear; we will leave after morning assembly. On Friday, September 30, we will return to Holton at approximately 4:00 p.m. When working with your daughter to pack her gear, please look carefully at the clothing and equipment list. It is important that your daughter has warm clothing and it is best to avoid packing cotton. Please have her bring items that can get dirty. It is also important that the girls not bring electronics. Not only is there no way for us to ensure the safety of those items, but it is impossible for the girls to tune into the mission of this trip when they are "plugged in."
We are excited about the trip with this class. We hope that the girls are excited as well. If you have any questions or concerns about this experience, please contact me. We appreciate your support of outdoor education and look forward to a successful trip.
Sincerely,
Christy Diefenderfer
Interim Middle School Director