Exploring Arizona: Adventure, Connection, and Giving Back

Over spring break, 7th and 8th grade students from our Swain Campus embarked on an unforgettable journey through Arizona, filled with adventure, exploration, and meaningful experiences. From the moment we landed in Phoenix, we hit the ground running—hiking the red rock formations of Papago Park and horseback riding through Cave Creek Canyon, where each of us met our individual horses and took in the beauty of the desert. We were also fortunate to have our incredible guide, Lindsey, with us throughout the trip. She encouraged us to be present, stay curious, and deepen our understanding of Arizona’s landscapes and cultures—all while ensuring we had as much fun as possible.

Day two brought the toughest physical challenge: hiking Devil’s Bridge in Sedona. The steep elevation gain and rock scramble tested our endurance, but it also became a lesson in how small actions can inspire others. Along the way, we stacked a few simple rocks, and by the time we hiked back down, at least ten others had built their own—proof that even a small creative idea can catch on. The next day, we explored the Lava Tubes, which are caves created from ancient lava, got stuck in the snow on our way to the Grand Canyon (turning it into a lesson in teamwork and patience), and finally arrived at the canyon itself. Standing in awe of its vastness, we even spotted some elk wandering nearby.

On day four, we crossed into Utah to explore the Toadstool Hoodoos before heading back into Arizona to see Horseshoe Bend and race dune buggies through the slot canyons—an adrenaline rush none of us will forget. That night in Page, we ate at Gone West, where students not only enjoyed a meal but also took the stage to perform. Jason Luo '30 played guitar while Mara Fischer '30, Maggie Borger '30, Alex Romig '30, and Amaya Hendrickx '30 sang their favorite Journey song, and we all joined in for some line dancing.

The trip wrapped up with a day of giving back in Tuba City, where we worked at the St. Jude Food Bank on Navajo Nation, helping organize food and clean up. It was a powerful reminder that travel isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about pushing ourselves beyond our comfort zones, building resilience, and forming connections that leave a lasting impact. As we headed back to Phoenix for our flight home, we carried with us not just incredible memories but also a deeper appreciation for the challenges we overcame, the cultures we learned about, and the people who made the journey truly meaningful.

Through this experience, our students embodied what it means to be global citizens—exploring the world with open minds, embracing diverse cultures, and learning through hands-on discovery. These moments of adventure, connection, and service are what shape them into thoughtful, engaged members of a global community.