Parker middle and upper school students got a little wet and wild Aug. 19 when they kicked off the new school year with their traditional campout.
Parker middle and upper school students got a little wet and wild Aug. 19 when they kicked off the new school year with their traditional campout.
After a day of hiking and bonding at Wailea Beach, middle school students returned to school grounds were they planned to pitch tents, however, because of heavy rain they ended up sleeping in their classrooms.
For many, the highlight came in the morning with water games, including a giant slip-and-slide and a water balloon fight.
Meanwhile, upper school students enjoyed a day of Harry Potter-themed team-building activities, organized by the senior class, before setting up camp at the Polo Fields on Kohala Ranch.
Upper school students and faculty chaperones enjoyed field games, relay races and a tenacious tug of war battle, followed by an evening talent show, where each class showcased their unique talents.
“The most important thing students take away from this experience is recognizing that Parker School is a safe place, where they are accepted and can trust one another,” says Tina Doherty, head of the middle school.
“Campout is about enjoying one another’s company and having fun together.”
Parker’s campout tradition began in the 1980s to serve as a team-building and bonding experience for students.
The purpose behind this tradition remains the same today, in addition to serving as a rite of passage for students, Doherty said.
Established in 1976 by community leaders, Parker School educates a diverse student body of more than 300 kindergarten through 12th-grade students annually. Parker School’s mission is every student is known, valued and nurtured.
For more information about Parker School, visit www.parkerschoolhawaii.org