Graduating 6th graders from Holy Family School who participated in "Nature's Classroom" in May. The students and HFS faculty spent three days in nature in Ivoryton, Connecticut, where they went hiking, studying the tides and animals at the beach, learned how to build fires and make rope, and other outdoor survival skills. (Submitted photo)

NORWICH — Graduating 6th graders from Holy Family School (HFS) traveled to Ivoryton, Connecticut at the end of May to be immersed in nature for three days. The students enjoyed hiking in the woods; an afternoon at the beach studying the tides, marsh, and creatures; and field group time with their knowledgeable leader learning how to build fires, cook apple crisp over the fire, make rope, and other outdoor survival skills.

This tradition began last year under the direction of now Pre-K teacher at HFS and former Nature’s Classroom teacher, Ms. Raina Douglass.

“It is a life-changing experience for students and teachers alike," she said. "It teaches them about themselves and being a positive member of a team and the world around them!”

The students and chaperones spent three days enjoying meals together. The students learned about nature in a hands-on way and became more confident and independent. The Nature’s Classroom program was exceptionally well-run and organized.

According to Mrs. Genute, current Grade 5/6 classroom teacher at HFS, “Nature’s Classroom is a priceless experience, and she looks forward to watching the opportunity for students at HFS grow and continue for many years to come.”

The HFS PTO was very gracious to support the majority of costs for the trip. Family donations and fundraisers also covered the cost.

Nature’s Classroom provided the students an opportunity to get out of the classroom and back to nature. The graduating 6th graders at Holy Family School have memories to last a lifetime.

Brooke Grow realized “you haven't had real fun until you start hiking the trails and climbing the huge rocks.” Alice Boland noted, "You haven't lived until you've sung to a snail." Jett Genute summed up the experience by stating, "I never knew three days in nature could be so fun.”

-Information provided by Holy Family School