Middle School Toton Science Schools

Teton Science Schools Field Trip

Grand Teton National Park is one of our nation’s most iconic parks, characterized by its dramatic mountain range, pristine alpine lakes, sweeping valleys, dense forests, and wild rivers. Visiting the Teton Science Schools provides a unique experience for our middle school learners as they explore the wonders of this amazing park through focused scientific observation and a place-based curriculum.

“In science we are learning about ecosystems and in Wyoming we were taught about that too. So it was cool to relate that back to school.” – Clementine

Students and chaperones use cross-country skis, snowshoes, vans, and even a horse-drawn carriage to observe wildlife such as moose, elk, and bald eagles. The excitement of discovering new animal tracks and discussing their significance fosters the teamwork we strive to cultivate in our classroom environment.

My favorite part of the trip was definetly the cross-country skiing. I had so much fun with my group! I honestly would do this on a personal trip. I surprised myself because I was actually really good at it. – Isla

All planned activities for 7th and 8th-grade students encourage collaboration and critical thinking about our relationship with the natural world. In small day groups, students explore specific areas of interest, such as tracking wildlife through different habitats.

“During the trip I learned that you should always enter an activity with an open mind.”– Miles

Outdoor Education Trips in Middle School

In middle school, students begin the year with teachers and peers, camping for several days in northern beach campgrounds. In Spring, sixth graders venture further to central California, camping for a week exploring mountain trails and tide pools. Our 7th and 8th graders travel by plane to other states to sleep in teepees, to river raft, and to study forest and glacier science by attending programs in Washington State (Nature Bridge), Wyoming (Teton Science School), or Utah (Canyonlands Field Institute), and others. While there, they engage in active, meaningful, transformative, hands-on, outdoor curriculum that integrates science, history, literature, and art.

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Recent Blog Posts:

Pines Cleanup Weekend

The Pines Cleanup Service Weekend

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During a recent Spring weekend, a group of our high school and 8th grade students backpacked up Horn Canyon to The Pines campground for a weekend of fun and community service.
Ojai Magazine 5oth Article

OGS 50th Featured in Ojai Magazine Article

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"More than 50 years ago, in the spring of 1975, Fred Hall, then editor of the Ojai Valley News, asked philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti a simple but pointed question: In a valley already full of public and private schools, why start another one?"
50th Anniversary Weekend RSVP

50th Anniversary Weekend RSVP

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Join us for a weekend of connection, reflection, and celebration with all those who have helped shape our community over the years.