A couple of months ago 6th, 7th, and 8th graders went on the newly returned middle school WOW trips. This was the first WOW in almost three years, and it took a lot of hard work and preparation to organize. Grade 8 went to Rishikesh, where they were separated into three camps and participated in many activities, such as rafting and zip-lining. While most middle school students enjoyed the different trips, there were undoubtedly many highs and lows. But what did the 8th-grade camp leads have to say about the trip?
Ms. Call went on the AES WOW for the first time to lead Snow Leopard and this is what she had to say about her experience.
"Not just one memory but being able to see my students outside of school and some of their different dynamics. It was fun to see how they interacted differently and get to see them as not my social studies students. "
This was Ms. Call's first time on the WOW trip and she was not the only teacher on their first AES WOW trip. HRR camp lead, Mr. Nickel, was also in Rishikesh for the first time.
"I think the one that I will carry with me the most was being woken up in the middle of the night to hear tigers for the first time. That was pretty special for me because that was something I never thought I would hear. We had a great leadership team, great students, good patience, and good attitudes. Yeah, we had our ups and downs but we took it in strides overall I think we all had a good time."
A veteran of the annual 8th-grade WOW trip who has gone back for the 11th time to lead Aquaterra, Mr. Currey.
"I always love the campfires - campfires are always my favorite time. It's cool to see kids share their personalities and that's my favorite part, seeing a kid's personality come out in a different way than in the classroom. I love this trip, but if I could change one thing, I wish we could raft more of the rapids."
