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.