Saratoga Independent School

Overnight Retreat to YMCA Camp Chingachgook

Grade 6, Senior students & faculty

 

Each Fall, our 6th grade students attend an overnight retreat at YMCA Camp Chingachgook in Lake George, NY.  The retreat is intended to serve as a special privilege for our oldest students and an opportunity to expand their knowledge and interpersonal relationships with each other and school faculty.

 

The two day, one night program gave student the opportunity to connect with classmates, experience the challenge of a high ropes course, build concentration and discipline at the archery range,  identify risks and solutions in a wilderness survival simulation, prepare their own meals over an open fire and more.
 

On the high ropes course, students learned about the various equipment and design elements that make a course possible.  Students were asked to consider the physics of a challenge course and as a group, strategized their approach to the various obstacles.  At the end of the course, the students were able to use the zip line as an exit, which was a big hit!
 

At archery, students learned proper stance and positioning, and fired arrows at targets spaced 10, 20, 30 and 50 feet. Students had the opportunity to discuss and critique each other's form and accuracy in a non-competitive, supportive fashion.
 

The group was then faced with the challenge of constructing a primitive shelter, that they would remain in during a fierce storm.  Students collected materials, determined location, and completed construction before sunset.  Each student had the responsibility of presenting their shelter, and received feedback from the group.
 

 

To implement a similar activity for your school:

-Contact your local resident camp or environmental education center

-Design a small group curriculum that includes a diverse offering of physical, mental and emotional questions/challenges.

-Organize transportation, meals and supplies as needed.

-Create an agenda and evaluation for students.

-Take plenty of photos!

-Enjoy time with your students in a new way.