The day was filled with thoughtfully planned activities that presented unique challenges and opportunities for growth. Eighth-graders went to the Ligonier Camp and Conference Center to tackle the challenge tower and participate in other team-building events. The seventh-grade students traveled to Summer’s Best Two Weeks in Boswell to work together on team-building challenges. Each seventh grader also took on the personal challenge of the climbing tower at the summer camp. Sixth-graders ventured to Laurel Hill State Park for hiking, games, and a specialized nature scavenger hunt. Fifth-graders trekked to Ohiopyle for a group bike ride, tour the visitors center, eat lunch by the falls, and enjoy a Valley School favorite snack- ice cream! 

A big thank you goes out to all the Upper School faculty—including Mr. Alex Busato, Mr. Marcus Croley, Mrs. Sarah Fichter, Mr. Michael Gilchrist, Mr. Brian Jinks, Mrs. Sandra Kantor, Mrs. Hannah Lichanec, Mr. Mark McNeil, Mrs. Lauren Molnar, Mrs. Cassie Nolfi, Ms. Carole Paterson, Dr. Gretchen Underwood, and Mrs. Kaley Zurawski—who joined the students in these memorable experiences. Your dedication and enthusiasm truly made a difference. Our fall trips have become a treasured highlight of the Upper School program, and we are grateful for your continued work. The school thanks school administrators, Mr. David Kirkland and Dr. Jon Strecker, for their unwavering support of this exceptional program each year.

Mr. Busato captured an incredible photo of the 6^th grade at Laurel Hill State Park, where they gathered around and gazed up at a majestic Hemlock tree in the old-growth forest. Each year, the sixth graders take a moment to reflect on the resilience and grandeur of these ancient trees. We hope our Valley School community members can take a minute within the next week or so to appreciate the beauty of nature around them. May our students continue to have a great academic year built off the social, emotional, and academic foundation that they created during last week’s trips.