News Summary
The Sandpoint Waldorf School’s graduating eighth graders are experiencing a transformative journey on the East Coast. Organized by teacher Jenni Stewart, this week-long trip encompasses educational visits to historical sites like Colonial Williamsburg and natural landmarks in North Carolina. The students will explore their country’s history while enjoying recreational activities including a day at Busch Gardens. This milestone educational trip highlights community involvement, personal growth, and the strong bonds between students and teachers as they transition to high school.
Sandpoint, Idaho – On May 13, the Sandpoint Waldorf School’s graduating class of 14 eighth graders embarked on an educational adventure to the East Coast. This trip marks a significant milestone in their Waldorf education, serving both as a celebration of their accomplishments and an opportunity to explore historical and cultural sites.
The trip is organized by teacher Jenni Stewart, who is accompanied by Angie Roberts, an owner of Breakwater Expeditions. The itinerary for this week-long journey has been tailored to reflect the students’ interests and recent studies in American history, particularly through a visit to Colonial Williamsburg. During this day of living history and reenactments, students will immerse themselves in the colonial lifestyle and gain a deeper understanding of their country’s past.
Following their time in Williamsburg, these eighth graders will transition to the natural beauty of North Carolina’s Outer Banks, where they will spend four days at the beach. A highlight of this segment will be a visit to Kitty Hawk, the historic site where the Wright brothers made their first powered flight. This excursion allows students to connect lessons learned in the classroom with real-world experiences.
In addition to the historical tours, students will also enjoy a full day at Busch Gardens amusement park, known for its thrilling rides and attractions. This balance of education and entertainment aims to create lasting memories during this pivotal time as students prepare for the transition to high school.
This trip showcases the strong community spirit and collaborative efforts characteristic of Waldorf education. The eighth graders played a significant role in planning the trip, expressing their desire to include water-related destinations. Jenni Stewart’s roots in North Carolina also influenced the choice of these particular East Coast locations, enriching the experience with personal connections.
The Sandpoint Waldorf School has a longstanding tradition of hosting an eighth-grade trip, which serves as a rite of passage for students completing their years of education at the institution. This annual event emphasizes the importance of community building and personal growth, as students reflect on their journey from first grade through eighth.
In Waldorf schools, it is common for teachers to stay with their classes from the first through the eighth grade, fostering deep bonds between educators and students. This year’s trip holds additional sentimental significance for Jenni Stewart, as she will transition to a new role as a first-grade teacher next year. The students are encouraged to carry the spirit of their school and community with them as they move forward into high school and their future endeavors.
Overall, this East Coast trip serves not only as a celebratory end to their Waldorf experience but also as an opportunity for exploration and growth. As they visit historic sites and enjoy leisure activities, students are positioned to create connections that will enrich their lives beyond the classroom. The experience encapsulates the values of the Sandpoint Waldorf School, reinforcing the importance of education, community, and personal development.
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Additional Resources
- Bonner County Daily Bee: SWS Students Head Off for Culminating Adventure
- Wikipedia: Waldorf Education
- Bonner County Daily Bee: Chamber Honors Bessler as Top Volunteer
- Google Search: Sandpoint Idaho
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Colonial Williamsburg
