![Annual 8th Grade Field Trip Leads to Bonding and Belonging]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1788284865/oakhillday/qpxi7tynridgp7u2sanm/IMG_5689.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1788284865/oakhillday/qpxi7tynridgp7u2sanm/IMG_5689.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1788284865/oakhillday/qpxi7tynridgp7u2sanm/IMG_5689.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1788284865/oakhillday/qpxi7tynridgp7u2sanm/IMG_5689.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1788284865/oakhillday/qpxi7tynridgp7u2sanm/IMG_5689.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1788284865/oakhillday/qpxi7tynridgp7u2sanm/IMG_5689.jpg","width":2200}])
Each year, in the first full week of school, Oakhill sends its 8th graders on a field trip to RoKC (topped off by a Hawaiian Bros lunch!). This annual trip kicks off the 8th grade year by solidifying peer relationships. The field trip is more than climbing rocks...it's rising to become a strong class of leaders and role models!
Courage
Many of the students practice courage on this trip. Whether it's climbing for the first time, climbing the "big walls," or climbing in front of friends, students dip into their courage to achieve individual goals. Here, Kendell smiles from near the top of a big wall!
Encouragement
At Oakhill, we teach that individual goals aren't just an individual's burden. Belonging in a community means you always have a friend, peer, or mentor to support and encourage you! The 8th graders had many chances to demonstrate this encouragement at RoKC. In the photo below, Hunter encourages Ryder and suggests ideas for Ryder's next step.
Enjoyment
By the time students are in 8th grade at Oakhill, some of them have been in school together for over a decade! Whether "lifers" or not, one of the hallmarks of an Oakhill class is its camaraderie and joy. Students enjoy being around each other! As you can see in this photo, games and fun are a group activity!
Advancement
The 8th graders end the field trip closer than before, ready to take on the roles of "oldest students in the school." They are ready to lead NJHS, and Student Council; ready to shine on the stage in Moana, Jr; ready to model responsibility and gratitude to the younger students. Take a look at the faces below: they are the future alumni of Oakhill!
