Eighth Grade goes camping

Can she do it?
Have courage‐hang on!
You made it!!

Such were the shouts of encouragement for each of the eighth graders as they met each challenge on the Ropes Couse at historic Fellowship Farm near Pottstown. The self confidence and trust building games were ably led by Richard Washington, a trainer at the program. Lots of splashing in the pool, hiking through the woods, and fun of sleeping in cabins filled out the days. A movie night (The Life of Harriet Tubman) was complete with popcorn.
 
A final bonfire featured impromptu and hilarious stories told by Mandla and Jon, s’mores, of course, and a spelling game using sparklers in the dark. The food was abundant and delicious. The friendships grew even deeper and stronger. The thoughts towards the end of the year and graduation grew more bittersweet.

But, in the meantime, Lucy helped us practice Swahili songs, Michelle kept us bug and sun burn free, and Sam took a gazillion photos. Aron joined us most days. Heidi encouraged each student and Maxine’s family's dog, Aurora, greeted us on Thursday. We ended the trip with a day to visit Hopewell Furnace, which was active at the time of the Civil War.

Tired and happy we returned to school. Camping trips are more than just fun. We made memories which each of the students (and all of us) will long cherish.

by Becky Rutherford, teacher