Returning to Crater Lake: A Second Year of Exploration and Adventure

This September, Cascade Virtual Academy, Insight School of Oregon–Painted Hills, and Destinations Career Academy of Oregon are heading back to one of Oregon’s most incredible natural treasures: Crater Lake National Park!

Last year marked the first time our schools came together to plan a special Crater Lake field trip for students and families. The response was incredible, with more than 125 students registering to take part in the experience. After such a great first year, we knew we wanted to make it an annual opportunity for our school communities.

Now, we’re returning to Crater Lake for year two!

More Ways to Explore

This year’s field trip will give students even more opportunities to connect with the landscape, explore their surroundings, and experience learning beyond the screen.

Students will have the opportunity to choose from activities such as:

• A longer hiking option for students who are ready to explore a little farther
• Crayon-resist watercolor art, inspired by the colors, textures, and geology of Crater Lake
• A mindfulness walk encouraging students to slow down, observe their surroundings, and connect with nature
• Sensory observation activities that invite students to use their senses to investigate the environment
• And more opportunities to learn, explore, create, and connect!

Whether students are interested in science, art, hiking, nature, or simply spending time with other members of their school community, there will be something for everyone.

Learning Beyond the Screen

As virtual schools, we know that learning doesn’t only happen in front of a computer. Experiences like this give students the chance to take what they’ve learned in their courses and see it come to life in the world around them.

Crater Lake provides the perfect classroom. Students can observe evidence of volcanic activity, investigate ecosystems, practice observation skills, create art inspired by the landscape, and ask questions about how this remarkable place continues to change.

Most importantly, it gives our students an opportunity to learn together, explore together, and create memories together.

Interested in Joining Us?

This special field trip is an opportunity for students and their Learning Coaches to participate together.

Learning Coaches who are interested in registering and attending with their student(s) can find registration details and additional information in the September School Newsletter that was emailed to all students and families.

We’re excited to continue building this Crater Lake tradition and can’t wait to see what year two has in store!

Here’s to another day of exploration, discovery, and adventure!

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