Bridging Learning & Experience

Intersessions

Students benefit from two intersessions each year, strategically placed between Terms 1 and 2 for the fall intersession, and between Terms 3 and 4 for the spring intersession. These experiences offer students a chance to recharge, broaden their horizons, and deepen their engagement with the world around them.

Fall Intersession

6TH GRADE
LEARNING TO LEARN

The 6th grade intersession allows students to delve deeper into their fall Quests, exploring themes like “How does mindfulness work for me?” and “How do I learn?” Students engage with a Mindfulness Practice Library and participate in hands-on learning activities. A visit to Green Gulch Farm offers a practical view of mindfulness in a real-world setting.
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7TH GRADE
COMMUNITY SERVICE

Students participate in daily community service expeditions, embodying the core value of Conscious Action. They can commit to one organization for the entire week or explore various volunteer opportunities. Organizations include SF-Marin Food Bank, Sequoia Living, Refuse, Refuse, SF Parks Dept., and City Hope.
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8TH GRADE
APPRENTICESHIPS

This intersession is the culminating event of 8th Grade students' Real-World Wednesday afternoon track. Students engage in apprenticeships across various fields, including visual and performing arts, restaurant/food industry, STEM, education, non-profit work, and retail.

Spring Intersession

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY & EXPLORATION

The Spring Journeys Intersession encourages students to understand the financial aspects of traveling. Students contribute to their trip expenses through fundraising activities, fostering a sense of ownership and commitment.
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LOCAL JOURNEYS

While older students travel domestically or internationally, 6th graders explore the Bay Area through localized small group journeys. Topics include backpacking, interior design, local cuisine, geocaching, and video games. Students create mini projects to synthesize their learning.
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DOMESTIC TRAVEL WASHINGTON DC

7th graders travel to DC, where they explore democracy through visits to national museums, historical monuments, and community service activities. This trip extends the 7th-grade Humanities quest “Who Makes History?” and involves critical analysis of historical events, figures, and symbols.

International Travel

THE CULMINATION OF EXPEDITIONARY LEARNING

For 8th graders, this week-long visit to a Spanish-speaking country represents the highlight of middle school for many students. It offers:

  • A Global Perspective: Students experience cultural immersion, challenging their worldviews.
  • Integrated Academics: Tailored content prepares students for their destination, exploring relevant historical, cultural, and civic themes.
  • Spanish Language Immersion: Daily conversations with native speakers significantly enhance linguistic proficiency and cultural understanding.

This transformative experience equips students with skills and perspectives needed to thrive in a globalized world.