Outdoor Ed
Outdoor Education for
Upper Elementary Students
Our upper elementary students set out for an adventure in April! We’re so excited for Quartz and Citrine Bands (8-12 year olds), Collaborators Cassie & Mary Catherine, and all of the wonderful parent chaperones who joined. Together, they spent 3 days at the local ecological and scenic gem, Pigeon Point Lighthouse and Hostel. Pigeon Point is located on the Pacific Ocean, 50 miles south of San Francisco, and 20 miles north of Santa Cruz.
The Exploring New Horizons Outdoor Schools at Pigeon Point Program embedded in this Historic State Park was phenomenal, with accommodations provided by Hostelling International. Throughout the trip, students had a unique opportunity to learn more about themselves as well as the natural world that surrounds them.
The Pigeon Point curriculum focuses on three strands:
Nature Appreciation and Understanding
Cooperation and Teamwork
Citizenship and Empowerment
These themes are taught through a variety of activities and locations. Daytime activities included:
Tidepooling at the Pigeon Point Lighthouse
Beach and coastal ecosystem exploration
Año Nuevo State Reserve / Elephant seal tours
Marine mammal observation
Redwood forest discovery hike
Nighttime activities include:
Elephant seal puppet show
Night hikes
Fog signal building tour
Stories and songs
The learning they did is indispensable, and will serve as a jumping off point for continuing studies in subsequent weeks with follow up lessons. Beyond the curriculum, students worked together to make meals, clean the hostel, and have a great time. Here, they built bonds and grew in ways that expand beyond the typical school environment. What a tremendous opportunity for these kids!
You Can Visit Pigeon Point Virtually!
Explore inside the Pigeon Point Lighthouse while it's closed for restoration! CyArk, in partnership with San Mateo County, Coastside State Parks Association, and California State Parks have created a 3D, 360 degree narrated tour of the the historic buildings and grounds at Pigeon Point for the 150th anniversary of the light station.
View the guided hikes and other public programs schedule and make a reservation by visiting the Parks Events page!