Templeton Middle School’s (TMS) entire eighth grade class was given the opportunity to connect with nature and each other during a team-building field trip to Camp Whitcomb/Mason the week of April 21. Over the course of three days, more than 350 students, 40 family volunteers and approximately 20 staff members visited the 300 acre site in Hartland.
“This is a field trip that all of us teachers look forward to each year,” exclaims Templeton Middle School Teacher Karen Zielinski. “It gives us a chance to spend time with our students in a fun way that is outside our normal environment. Seeing our students try new activities that some may never have the chance of doing, is really special,” she adds.
“The goal of this trip is to participate in team-building and problem-solving exercises that result in collaboration and the use of interpersonal skills,” explains Templeton Middle School Counselor Steve Gross. “Students enjoyed environmental education group activities such as canoeing, lake study, archery, nature hikes and outdoor cooking. In each activity area, students are able to spend time with fellow students that they might not normally have class with or socialize with.”
“I was super impressed with how respectful the students were,” explains parent volunteer Erin Nasgovitz. “The kids were so kind to one another and sincerely enjoyed spending time with classmates who they may not otherwise know very well. It was so enjoyable to see them detach from electronics to have fun exploring nature.”
Karen Barney has a granddaughter at TMS and volunteered to chaperone the field trip. “The TMS kids were respectful, listening to directions along with lots of smiles and laughter at every station,” explains Barney. “From what I saw, the TMS staff, students, camp staff and volunteers enjoyed the perfect field trip!”
“This trip gets students to the great outdoors of Wisconsin,” shares Templeton Middle School Teacher Jim Hilgenberg. “Our eighth graders had fun canoeing, practicing archery, cooking over a campfire and hiking in the woods. We had many parent chaperones join us, which is always great to see,” he adds. “Some mentioned to me how this was probably the last field trip they get to join before students are off to high school, so a bittersweet but fun experience for them too.”
Zielinski says one of her favorites is the canoeing station. “Not many students have ever gone canoeing before. Some were really hesitant about trying it,” she explains. “Once we get them out there, they end up having a blast. The groups really have to work together to get the canoe to turn and actually head somewhere. There’s a lot of laughing that takes place! Each year I always try to get out there with them. I think they enjoy seeing me out there too!”
Camp Whitcomb/Mason is a Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee property located in Hartland, Wisconsin.