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PHILOSOPHY AND OBJECTIVES

 

"Outdoor education is not a separate discipline like math or science.  Rather it is a learning "climate" that offers young people the chance to identify and resolve real-life problems, to acquire skills with which to enjoy a lifetime of creative living, to develop a concern about man and his natural environment, and to get back in touch with those aspects of living where our roots were once firm and deep."

    Smith, Carleson, Masters and Davidson, Outdoor Education

 

Historical Appreciation

 

An objective of this experience is to let the students relive, as much as practical, three days in the early 1800s in order to reinforce the things they learned about early Michigan in history class.  In 1837, when Michigan became a state, cooking over open fires, canoe transportation, and less than modern conditions were necessities rather than recreation.  Students experience these as well as learn about homesteading, surveying, and pioneer crafts.  All of these activities provide a perfect way to conclude your child's experience at the Blissfield Middle School.

 

OUTDOOR APPRECIATION AND SKILLS

Another objective is for students to have a deeper appreciation for their environment and a better knowledge of the skills needed in the out-of-doors.  Building no-scar fires and proper disposal of garbage are taught, but perhaps the greatest gift we give students is the opportunity to be outdoors where they may witness Canadian Geese, wild turkeys, deer, and other wildlife that inhabit the wild areas of camp.  At times students may even hear the strange thumping or beating of the courting partridge.

 

SOCIAL SKILLS AND INDIVIDUAL GROWTH

All of our activities promote social and individual growth.  We participate in an obstacle/cooperation course that demonstrates the need for working together to complete rather difficult physical challenges.  Group cooking, dish washing, and other chores build cohesiveness among campers.  A square dance and eighth grade celebration are highlights of the final night together.  Many individuals find they are able to do things they felt they were unable to do.  Quiet moments around campfires give insights about others we have never seen or talked to in all the years that we have been together.