To offer more program dates this year, we decided to facilitate all of our single-day courses in-house. That meant a busy week for the Education Without Walls team as we planned, prepared, and delivered our first course of the season. Busy, yes, but also a lot of fun!

We had an amazing time with both returning and new students on Saturday. Our Orientation course ran from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and the day was packed with activity. The primary goal was to help students build connections with one another while learning about the exciting year ahead with Education Without Walls.

The heat was a beast, but it didn’t slow down the games, yoga, hiking, Ed Groups, scavenger hunt, cook out nor our closing circle. Throughout the day, students stepped up, participated fully, and brought great energy to every activity. Our dedicated staff shined just as brightly, creating an environment where everyone felt welcomed, supported, and ready for the year ahead.

We’re incredibly excited about what’s to come and can’t wait to take the good vibes to the next level at Disc Golf & Beach Games next month!

The 2026 Graduation was a milestone for our students, but it was also a milestone for Education Without Walls. We did it!

The evening was filled with celebration, connection, and pride. Every student was honored for their accomplishments, delicious food was shared, and the support from families, friends, and the community was felt throughout the event.

For years, our vision for graduation has been something more than certificates and photos. We wanted it to be a meaningful experience that reflected our students’ journeys, growth, and achievements. This year, that vision became a reality.

The 2026 Graduation was not just a ceremony. It was a celebration of perseverance, community, and the incredible accomplishments of our students. We couldn’t be prouder of what they have achieved, and we look forward to seeing where their paths lead next.

8 Days, 7 Ed Groups, 6 Kayaks, 5 Tents, 4 Flips, 3 Tarps, 2 Portages, 1 Canoe, and Lots of PB & J!

Our Education Without Walls’ students explored the New River for the very first time, and the trip did not disappoint.

For eight unforgettable days, 13 adventurers paddled, splashed, swam, and explored one of the region’s most beautiful waterways. Days were both fun and focused (they had to get to the next campsite)! Evenings brought opportunities for reflection through campfire summits, daily educational groups, and student presentations of learning.

Our LITs (Leaders in Training) stepped into leadership roles by co-teaching many of the educational groups, including Levels of Communication, Group Decision Making, and Values Clarification. Their contributions helped create meaningful learning experiences for the entire group.

When it came to meals, homemade fire-roasted pizza was voted the favorite food of the trip, which came as no surprise! Although there was plenty of competition from the peanut butter and jelly sandwiches (heavy on the jelly).

While everyone loved their time on the river, they equally appreciated returning to warm showers and comfy cabins at NCOAE in Wilmington. The expedition concluded with a well-earned beach day, providing the perfect ending to an incredible summer adventure.

New River, thank you! You were a fantastic host, and we can’t wait to return.