Experiential Education

Purpose

Experiential education transforms students from passive recipients of information into active participants in their own learning. By connecting academic content with authentic experiences, it develops the knowledge, skills, and dispositions students need to succeed in college, careers, and civic life. In a rapidly changing world, experiential education helps students become adaptable, confident, and capable lifelong learners who are prepared not only to navigate change but also to lead it.

alt — Awbury Arboretum Trip- Conservation Careers 101 and Let'sGo123

Esperanza Minorities in Health Sciences Symposium Trip 2026

The Experiential Education Class is an Honors Level Academic Course with College Credit

Imagine earning high school credit while exploring another country, experiencing a new culture, and learning beyond the classroom. The Experiential Education Overseas Class (EEC) is a unique, for-credit elective that combines academic learning with an unforgettable international experience.

Students who are selected for the program earn one elective Carnegie Unit (1.0 CU) toward graduation. Like any other academic course, the class is graded and challenges students to grow as learners, leaders, and global citizens.

What to Expect

Each spring, a new group of students is selected to participate in the following year's program. Once accepted, students become part of a dedicated learning community that prepares for the overseas experience throughout the school year.

As a member of the EEC, students will:

Attend regular class meetings and participate actively.
Complete assignments focused on the destination's culture, history, and global issues.
Prepare academically and personally for international travel.
Maintain strong academic performance in all classes.
Meet high expectations for character, responsibility, and behavior before and during the trip.
Keep a reflective travel journal that documents their experiences and learning.

How You'll Be Evaluated

The overseas experience is an integral part of the academic course. Your final grade reflects your overall commitment and participation throughout the program, including:

Pre-trip assignments and preparation
Your travel journal
Observations and feedback from the chaperones during the experience
A recommended grade submitted by each chaperone

The final course grade is determined by President Emeritus Joseph Proietta ("Mr. P"), who serves as the Lead Teacher for the Experiential Education Overseas Class.

This is more than a class, it's an opportunity to expand your perspective, challenge yourself, and create memories and friendships that can last a lifetime.

North Carolina Outward Bound Program sponsored by the Kate Svitek Memorial Fund

North Carolina Outward Bound is more than an outdoor adventure. It's a chance to discover what you're truly capable of. Imagine spending days backpacking through breathtaking mountains, climbing towering rock faces, paddling scenic rivers, and working alongside a team of students who quickly become lifelong friends. Every challenge helps you build confidence, resilience, leadership, and problem-solving skills that will stay with you long after the expedition ends. No previous outdoor experience is required, just a willingness to step outside your comfort zone and try something new.

If you're looking for an experience that will challenge you, inspire you, and help you grow, North Carolina Outward Bound is for you. This isn't about being the fastest or strongest; it's about discovering your strengths, supporting others, and proving to yourself that you can accomplish more than you ever imagined. Along the way, you'll create unforgettable memories, gain real leadership experience, and return home with greater confidence and a new perspective on what you can achieve. Your next great adventure and perhaps the most life-changing experience of high school could begin with North Carolina Outward Bound.

Ongoing opportunities throughout the school year.

Experiential learning extends far beyond the classroom at our school. Throughout the year, students have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of educational trips, college visits, career exploration experiences, and meaningful community service projects that help them discover their passions while developing valuable life skills. These hands-on experiences connect classroom learning to the real world, encouraging students to become confident leaders, engaged citizens, and lifelong learners.

Students have explored higher education through visits to institutions such as Penn State Abington, La Salle University, Esperanza College, and prestigious programs including the Harvard Future Lawyers and Harvard Future Doctors Programs. Career exploration opportunities have introduced students to fields such as construction trades through the Build My Future event, the Sheet Metal Workers Local 19 apprenticeship program, Philly Financial Scholars, and Real World Leaders/AccessCo, providing valuable insight into future career pathways.

Our students also engage in meaningful service-learning experiences with organizations including MANNA, Feast of Justice, Caring for Friends, the Sunday Love Project, Greater Goods Food Pantry, the Jewish Relief Agency, and the Juniata Older Adult Center. These opportunities foster compassion, empathy, and a commitment to giving back to the community.

In addition, students enrich their learning through cultural, historical, and educational experiences at destinations such as the Philadelphia Film Festival at the Prince Theater, the Barnes Foundation, the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, Eastern State Penitentiary, the Suzanne Roberts Theatre, Philadelphia Zoo, Awbury Arboretum, Courtesy Stables, the Pennsylvania Farm Show, Lincoln Financial Field, and the Philly Service Award Participating Schools Day. Programs such as Let's Go 1-2-3 further encourage personal growth, teamwork, and leadership.

These diverse experiential education opportunities allow students to explore new interests, build lasting relationships, serve their communities, and gain experiences that prepare them for success in college, careers, and beyond. At our school, learning isn't confined to four walls—it's an adventure that inspires students to dream bigger, think deeper, and make a positive impact on the world around them.