Students Conquer Rapids on Palmer Rapids Trip

This month, our two double-credit Outdoor Education (OE) classes embarked on an exhilarating trip to Palmer Rapids to complete their moving water unit. Over two days, students honed their canoeing skills on the rapids, guided by their teachers, Ms. Connelly and Mr. Bemrose, along with Paddle Co-op instructors and OE staff members Laura Inkila, Mike Judson, Hayden Canning, Garret Hart, Anna Richardson, and Peter Rowley.

The adventure began with a swim in the current, which helped students overcome their initial fears of "dumping and swimming." This initial challenge set the tone for the trip, allowing students to build confidence and fully engage in the activities ahead.

Throughout their time on the river, students focused on refining specific river maneuvers such as ferries and C and S turns. The highlight for many was attempting to navigate through the notorious 'green monster' at the bottom of the rapids without swamping their boats. This provided both a fun and educational experience, testing their skills and teamwork.

The Palmer Rapids trip served as a culmination of the canoeing skills developed over the year, offering students the opportunity to see their growth in action. It was a memorable and rewarding experience, showcasing the students' perseverance, skill development, and love for the outdoors. This trip continues to be a highlight of the OE program, celebrating the culmination of a year of hard work and adventure.