On September 20 and 21, the 6th-grade students embarked on a two-day field trip to Camp Tekakwitha located in Shawano, WI. Nestled amidst tranquil woods and serene waters, Camp Tekakwitha provides an unforgettable experience for our students. Students were chaperoned by their homeroom teachers, Ms. Clare Zipperer and Mr. Tomerot Lambert. Ms. Brittany Dudzik, our assistant principal, also tagged along for the adventure!
One of the highlights of the trip was the exhilarating canoeing adventure. The students paddled their way through the crystal-clear waters of the camp’s lake, surrounded by towering trees and a gentle breeze. It was a test of their teamwork and coordination as they navigated the water, ensuring they didn’t tip over. They learned valuable lessons about communication, trust, and the beauty of working together in nature’s embrace. “My favorite part about camp was canoeing. We were able to visit an island in the middle of the lake and even canoe through a tunnel!” said Garett, a 6th-grader in Mr. Lambert’s homeroom.
Besides canoeing, the camp offered a wide range of team-building activities designed to foster cooperation, communication, and problem-solving skills. “I really enjoyed trying to work together to get through the spider web,” said Quinn. “It was nice being able to practice our communication skills and work together to try and beat the challenge.” Another popular activity was archery. Students were able to practice using a bow and arrow to hit targets. For many of the students, it was their first time ever using a bow. Other activities the students participated in included shaving cream wiffle ball, human foosball, beach volleyball, a campfire with smores, and writing personal letters of affirmation. These activities not only strengthened their friendships but also taught them valuable life skills that will serve them well in the future.
Camp Tekakwitha is not only about adventure and fun; it also provides students with opportunities for reflection and spiritual growth. In a tranquil chapel located near the lake, the students gathered for a prayer service hosted by Father Adam, pastor at St. Bernard Parish. They also spent some time in self-reflection. They reflected on the beauty of nature, their friendships, and their personal growth during the trip. It was a poignant moment, as they realized that amidst the adventure and excitement, they also found moments of peace and serenity.
Camp Tekakwitha served as the perfect backdrop for a memorable and transformative experience that will stay with these students for years to come.
“It was a wonderful time spent with the students and the perfect way to begin the 2023-2024 school year! I enjoyed being able to see the students outside of the classroom and help them explore new things. I am grateful to have been a part of this experience,” said Ms. Dudzik.
Camp is a major part of the middle school experience at St. Bernard Catholic School. Not only do the 6th-grade students get to go to Camp Tekakwitha every fall, but the 7th-grade students attend Camp U-Nah-Li-Ya in winter and the 8th-grade students attend Camp Anokijig in spring each year as well.
St. Bernard Catholic School (PK3-8) is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school with open enrollment serving preschool students and elementary students from Kindergarten through 8th grade. St. Bernard provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.
