An Update from Emerson High School
Summer has been a busy time for Emerson High School (EHS). Kyle Fagan, the school's Americorps Volunteer in 2009, designed and implemented a new summer school program incorporating modern Rite of Passage curriculum with an outdoor adventure element. In its first summer the program initiated seven students into their emerging adulthood. Here is Kyle's update.
An Update from Kyle Fagan.
Over the past few months, Emerson High School has had the opportunity to participate in the Coming of Age for Communities program. By taking part in two full-day training sessions, an on-site visit by a Journeys staff member, and tailored consultation, we created a dynamic summer school course for our students. The summer school course, which focused on emerging adulthood, was offered to seven current students of Emerson High School for six consecutive weeks.
 EHS students hold onto a piece of webbing as they lean back into a trust activity at the beginning of their time together. |
The course utilized the knowledge and experience gained from Journeys while incorporating supplementary curriculum to allow students to earn school credit while participating in the rite of passage. The combined course in Social Studies and Outdoor Education focused on topics from global to local interest. Students used periodicals, current media information, and historical perspective to understand coming of age issues. Topics covered a wide range based on student interest, including environmental, political, social, economic, and health issues. |
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In parallel with the studies of these issues, students participated in several experiential opportunities to help bolster their educational and personal growth. These opportunities took the form of initiatives at Eagle Rock Challenge Course, the writing of a personal belief statement based on NPR’s This I Believe, a Hero’s Journey analysis based on The Matrix, and a wilderness expedition to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness area. |
 EHS students spend a day at a local Ropes |
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Students and staff deemed the course a success, both wishing more time was available for further inquiry. There is rooted excitement in the potential to offer the course again next summer, giving such a meaningful experience to another group of deserving students. Emerson High School gives Journeys a whole-hearted thanks for being the catalyst for this incredible opportunity. |
 At the end of the six-week session the students |
