Viewpoint’s Seventh Grade students traded the classroom for the coast this week as they traveled to Howland’s Landing on Catalina Island for their annual outdoor education retreat.

Set along Catalina’s secluded coastline, the three-day experience gives students an opportunity to explore the island’s unique environment while building connections with classmates and teachers early in the school year. Through the Catalina Environmental Leadership Program (CELP), a partnership of Catalina Island Camps and Ocean Futures, students engage with the island’s ecology and marine sciences through hands-on outdoor learning.

Throughout the retreat, Seventh Grade students take part in activities including kayaking along the shoreline, hiking the island’s scenic trails, and rock climbing. Beyond introducing students to Catalina’s natural environment, each experience encourages teamwork, cooperation, problem-solving, and a shared sense of adventure.

The trip also creates space for students to strengthen existing friendships and form new ones. Away from their usual routines on campus, students share new experiences with classmates and teachers, helping build the relationships and sense of community that will carry with them throughout Middle School.

“Our Seventh Grade students kicked off their retreat with a scenic Catalina Express boat ride to Howland’s Landing. The excitement was evident from the moment we docked as students enjoyed lunch, settled into their cabins, and spent the afternoon kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking,” said Patrick Marquez, Middle School Dean. “We hope they return home with incredible stories to share, along with meaningful memories and connections that stay with them long after the retreat is over.”

With a combination of environmental education, outdoor exploration, and time spent together, the Catalina retreat offers Seventh Graders an opportunity to learn in a different setting while creating memories with their classmates along the way.