High Trails is an amazing week-long retreat that gives fellow Pine Creek students the opportunity to partake in a variety of activities with middle schoolers by serving as camp counselors; it’s a popular event that not only allows volunteers, whether part of National Honor Society or just looking to build their resume, to get community service hours but also enhances their leadership skills and encourages engagement in the community. Middle school students learn through spending time outdoors and participating in recreational activities.
Having fun with the kids was one of the highlights for many High Trails counselors. “We played games like Gaga Ball… even games I’ve never heard of,” says Caleb Lederman (12). Patience was a key factor for activities such as this, as the sixth graders had an endless amount of energy. Many used their skills to help manage them. “It was more just guidance, if they were struggling with anything, I’d just help them out,” says Landon Noble (12). “Like a sleeping bag; I’d help put it up.” For many, the food, getting to hang out with the kids, and having fun together all contributed to a very exciting atmosphere. “We all did a silent morning hike,” Aniyah Green (12), shares, the silent hike being her favorite moment. “It’s nice to just sit there and listen to the birds and one of the counselors sing a song.” The counselors also dressed up in costumes and taught them about the history of the people who lived out in nature long ago. “My main activity was being a homesteader, and talking to the kids a bit about what it was like to be a homesteader back then,” she explains.
This year’s High Trails experience was an overall success, bringing about a sense of community and tradition, and there was lots of fun to be had.