Blog

The annual 12th grade September zoology trip had to be canceled in 2020, and the 2021 trip seemed doubtful because of the virus transmission risk inherent with travel. Fortunately, staff and families worked together to plan and execute an incredible experience for the Class of 2022 to spend six days at Hermit Island Campground on the coast of Maine, the 25th time this trip has been offered to Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor seniors!

Students started their 12th grade year at the high school campus doing their zoology main lessons outside on our high school campus with Mr. Banks. They had one week together to prepare for what they would be studying in Maine. Expectations were high. Many students hadn’t traveled in a long time and were incredibly excited about this opportunity. Moreover, because of the pandemic, these students were not able to do the 10th grade Survey Trip or any Hiking Club trips which would have given additional opportunities to get to know one other and to develop confidence for camping and studying outdoors together.

One student noted that she’d forgotten how much being in nature can make her feel grounded. She said that while she was excited about the trip, she hadn't thought that she would be able to fully leave behind the enormous stress she feels as a 12th grader applying to college, but she was pleasantly surprised that she felt light and happy all week.

Mr. Banks said of the academic objectives, "The primary aspect of the block is biological study, including field observations of different habitats, lab observations of organisms, main lessons on different invertebrate animal groups in which the students get to observe animals while we talk about them, and the ecological interactions between the organisms and their environment.  In addition, from the scientific point of view we study the geological aspects of how these habitats form, including looking at how beaches, dunes, and mudflats are formed and cosmic influences on the earth leading to the tides that shape these environments."

Studying invertebrate zoology in person in the tide pools on the coast of Maine was a one-of-a-kind learning experience. Students were able to synthesize learning from lectures, laboratory work, and observation to gain a deep understanding of local ecosystems. Poetry, cooking, painting, and singing ensured that students could learn about and appreciate this experience via multiple pathways and senses.

The students were challenged. They slept in individual tents in an often-noisy campground (thanks to both animals and other campers!) and had to work together to prepare for and clean up after every meal. They had little free time because of the rigorous academics, and no electronic devices. Their classes were mostly outside regardless of weather. Nevertheless, student reflections are overwhelmingly positive.

Many students count frolicking in the mud flats as a highlight. Singing around the campfire was another.

Some students’ favorite part was getting to know students from other Waldorf high schools. The Hermit Island trip has been attended by many Waldorf high schools for the past 25 years. Combining several schools during the one-week trip gives students a chance to meet others outside their typically small high schools. Many students stay in contact with these new friends for the rest of high school, into college and beyond.

Students expressed gratitude for the chaperones that made this trip possible, including the campground owner who gave an inspiring talk about the local environment and our role in preserving natural habitats. All of us at the high school are grateful to be able to provide these unique experiences for our students.