PROGRAMS FOR SCHOOLS

The “expedition” is a critical and unique ancient human experience that dates back in history to the earliest nomadic peoples on earth. Wherever you go, there exists the mysterious paradox that traveling together outdoors creates the experience of ‘here and now’ that can otherwise be impossible to find in today’s world.

Imagine… your students poised together at the first light of dawn, gathered in a circle around a pile of gear, at the head of a wilderness trail or on the bank of a swift flowing river. The center of the circle is held by; food, tents, ropes, maps, compasses, backpacks and paddles -- the necessities that will sustain your life for the duration of your expedition. Each tool and accompanying task will demand mastering new skills and knowledge, as taught patiently by experienced wilderness guides. Slowly the students begin to volunteer, organize, and accept responsibility for what they each will carry and tend on behalf of the group.

Imagine… your students confronting a sudden challenge: a thunderstorm approaches, the trail takes an unexpected turn in the wrong direction, or a canoe overturns, spilling people and gear into the water near a section of rushing white water. Meeting these challenges will call upon the strength and cooperation of the entire group. Over the journey students have gained the skills and trust to work together – scouting and finding shelter, throwing ropes and tying knots, building fires and cooking, and navigating with a map and compass. Our expert guides and teachers are always present to monitor the safety of the situation and the personal wellbeing of each student, while offering the group an ever-increasing level of responsibility and age-appropriate adventure.

At the end of the day, you are gathered around a crackling campfire sharing stories and songs, after enjoying a delicious hot meal, prepared and served by everyone working together. Before scattering into your cozy tents and sleeping bags, the students and teachers talk and listen to one another, reviewing the lessons of the day: the practical skills, roles, and responsibilities of the expedition, the natural history and geography of the day’s landscape, and the social and emotional life of the community. Reflected in the firelight you get a glimpse of the changes within your student’s eyes: personal development and spiritual growth, a new confidence and sense of connection with one another.

Base Camp: Imagine… your students waking up on working farm. The sun is rising and warming the field that is surrounded by dwellings, of indigenous design, all nestled on the edge of a large wilderness area. Your students rise with the sun and greet the day with the anticipation of working with the animals, harvesting food, preparing their meal and the firewood to cook it over. They are met by our expert teachers with a song that is inspired by the love of the land and community and sparked by their enthusiasm to share it with the next generations.

THE UNIQUE KROKA EXPERIENCE
-We choose authentic experiences that offer appropriate physical challenges
-We teach and practice handwork skills using natural materials from local native peoples
-We gather, prepare, and eat local food, sharing meals together as part of each activity
-We tell stories and observe natural history and environmental science lessons that on our journey
-We create time and space for spiritual experience of the outdoors
-All trips include the themes of community building, academic integration and celebration.