Experiential Learning

Community service takes two forms in the Middle School: service learning throughout the classrooms and direct service or service days through the service learning program. Throughout the year,  students may find themselves cleaning up our local creek (Sausal Creek) and collecting books, artwork, and products to be given to persons in need. You may also see them delivering goodie baskets to neighbors, reading to their Buddies, or serving lunch at St. Vincent De Paul. We are committed to serving our school and local area. Throughout the year we engage in a number of programs and projects designed to help us connect and respond to the needs of our communities.

Beginning in fourth grade and continuing throughout Middle School, students embark on outdoor education for 4-5 days each year. The purpose of these trips is to bring our students into environments they might not otherwise be exposed to, deepen their knowledge of themselves, and reinforce environmental science learning. For most trips, an organization called Naturalists-at-Large assists our faculty to create a program that is tailored to our needs. Some classes need more opportunities to work on team-building, while others are much more interested in studying the ecosystem or challenging themselves on day hikes. Time away from home, from school, and from our daily schedule allows for new friendships, time to reflect, and a renewed appreciation of California’s beautiful landmarks.

Please view slide shows below from Naturalists at Large to see what our students will be experiencing during their Outdoor Ed trip(s):

Mount Cross slideshow

Pinnacles slideshow