On Tuesday and Wednesday of this week, the sixth graders went on a fabulous overnight trip to Fairview Lake Camp in Newton, New Jersey. Upon arrival at Fairview Lake, the students were divided into learning groups with a naturalist. There were four different activities that the sixth graders participated in: stream science (fishing), team building activities, lake activities and shelter building. After a fun-filled afternoon, the students ate a delicious dinner and then roasted marshmallows by the campfire. Everyone sang funny campfire songs around the fire until it was time for the night activity—a walk in the woods. The naturalists taught the students how to adjust their eyes to the darkness and shared that pirates wear a patch in order to help them see better in the dark. After that night activity, the students had free time and, of course, ate snacks in the dining room.

In the morning, the sixth graders davened overlooking the gorgeous lake view and then ate breakfast (including muffins!) The culminating activity of the trip was the ridge hike. The students hiked the three miles along the Appalachian trail. At the summit of the mountain, the sixth graders were treated to a spectacular view of the camp ground and saw where three states meet: New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. This was a memorable trip which combined the development of team building and survival skills with the opportunity to create lasting friendships and bond with their teachers.