Outdoor Education

Students Take Notes During Field Instruction

8th Graders Enjoying the Views

Parents, Teachers and Students Ski Day During Outdoor Ed.

6th - 8th Grade Outdoor Education

The Headwaters Academy Outdoor Education Program provides students the opportunity to learn and explore primarily in a wilderness setting. This program takes advantage of the scenic beauty of the Gallatin Valley and surrounding areas. Outdoor Education may include a backcountry hiking trip, 5-day Field Study Tour (FST), 2 days skiing (one at Bridger Bowl and one at Big Sky,) winter backcountry overnights, winter day hikes, an indoor climbing wall, and 1 day of cross-country skiing. 

Program goals may include team building, self-reliance, leadership skills, outdoor skills, planning and preparing for an expedition, safety, and environmental education. Program goals are accomplished by engaging students in activities ranging from initiatives and service projects to rock climbing and white-water rafting. Students are required to be both followers and leaders.  Leadership can occur in several modes including creation, planning and managing trips.  

Trips aim to provide a forum for reflection, and connect core academic classes in an outdoor setting. When possible, outdoor educators work with other teachers in the school to aid in reinforcing classroom lessons. Grading is based on motivation, preparedness, technical ability, safety, judgment, and cooperative skills.  

Conrad Anker Teaches the Students How to Ice Climb

6th and 7th Graders Pause for a Breath & Photo during Outdoor Education with Ms. Abby