Jill Harlow – Loveland, Colorado … The sophomore class at Campion Academy (CA) in Loveland, Colorado, explored arches, ruins, and other natural wonders on their annual biology trip to Moab, Utah, led by CA science teacher Erica Franklin, May 1-5.
The first stop was Mesa Verde National Park in Montezuma County, Colorado, where they were able to take a tour of the ancient Balcony House cliff dwelling.
The students spent the first night at the Cortez Seventh-day Adventist Church in Cortez, Colorado, May 1, where Franklin grew up. The students provided the morning worship for the students at the Cortez Adventist School, also in Cortez, before continuing the drive to Moab.
They camped for the remainder of the trip on the banks of the Colorado River where they bonded over the lack of cellular service and daily showers. Sophomore student, Evie Lange, reflected, “Moab was a good experience, and definitely bonded our class in ways that we can’t do in a regular school day.”
The students rafted down the Colorado River, May 2. Clara Aakko, sophomore, commented, “The most fun part was river rafting. We got to have a water fight and saw lots of wildlife.”
Following rafting, the students worked on a class project that involved identifying plants while hiking in the Moab area.
On the last day, the students all hiked to the renowned Delicate Arch, and then split into groups to explore various trails in Arches National Park in Grand County, Utah.
While hiking, one of the groups ended up losing their way on a trail. However, for some, getting a bit lost was one of the most memorable and fun experiences of the trip. Addison Gann, student, explained, “Even though we got lost on the extra hike, we were able to work together to find a trail back to the correct place. While some of us had a lot of anxiety, we encouraged each other and did not give up until we made it back.”
Class unity and camaraderie were common themes as students reflected on their experiences. Keren Simba, student, who was recovering from an injury, shared, “Even though I was hurt, Mr. and Mrs. Ramos [sponsors on the trip] and my classmates helped me get through all the activities and have a fun time. I was determined to make it to see those arches and take the group picture!”
The biology trip has been a tradition at Campion Academy for many years. Since Cindy Santana retired last year as the Biology teacher, this year was the first trip that Franklin led. While it takes a lot of planning and work, Franklin shared that the trip is a very worthwhile endeavor to continue.
“The trip allows the students to observe the flora and fauna in the Moab area and apply their learning to complete biology-related field exercises,” explained Franklin. “On the trip, the students grow closer as a class, and have an opportunity to enjoy God’s nature.”
—Jill Harlow is the Campion Academy communication director. Photos supplied.
