Upper School students, faculty, and staff enjoyed a recent surfing adventure on the Oregon coast. For some students, it was their first time in the ocean.
Experiential Education
Out of your comfort zone, into the learning zone.
At OES, we believe in the power of applying classroom knowledge in the real world. Students step out of their comfort zone, overcome their fears, support one another, and experience incredible growth. From the pond and wetlands on campus, to full-days spent in the woods, to hiking many of the trails the Pacific Northwest has to offer, ultimately culminating in a four-night backpacking trip into true wilderness, intrigue in and stewardship of nature is part of the OES experience.
OES offers a variety of experiential education resources for students including:
- Winterim, Outdoor Programs, Class Trips, Weekend Outdoor Activities (Upper School), and Discovery Day (PreK - Grade 1)
Meet the Team
Walker Pruett
Each year, OES 11th graders embark on a backpacking adventure deep into the Pacific Northwest wilderness. While they hike, camp, and take in the splendors of the outdoors, students learn more about themselves and cultivate a sense of responsibility for the environment.
On campus and off, OES Director of Experiential Education Tom Handel offers students from pre-k to grade 12 relatable critical thinking and collaborative experiences in nature, preparing them for challenges, and for life.
Upper School students experienced their class trips as a fun way to bond and start off the new year.
Eighth graders rafted the Deschutes last week for their annual spring class trip.
Sixth graders explored paleontology and geology in the Oregon high desert last week.
The entire fifth grade class experienced amazing adventures on their trip this week.