Our oldest Middle School students visit Camp Mason for the first time since 2019

From Monday, September 30 to Wednesday, October 2, students were immersed in an important milestone, venturing into a new environment far beyond Brooklyn to participate in an integral part of the Grade 8 experience. Camp Mason offers modern facilities set on 650 acres of scenic mountain woodlands in Hardwick, NJ, an optimal environment for personal reflection, team and relationship building, and challenge in the company of trusted adults. Making its return after a pause in the program due to COVID-19, students were accompanied on the overnight trip by the Head of Middle School Dan Doughty, Director of Student Life Jared Winston, the Middle School dean team, and faculty members.

Collaboration, Communication, & Building Trust

Dan Doughty described the recreational activities offered to students at Camp Mason saying each offered “a mix of creativity, physical challenge, and fun, all fostering independence as they explored new skills.” Daytime activities were perfect for fall; students cooked sweetly-seasoned apples over an open fire and pressed their own cider in Apple Baking & Cidering. “In Action Socialization Experience (ASE), they tackled physical challenges that tested their communication and teamwork, while the Black Bear activity focused on clear verbal communication to build a structure. Boating and Canoeing strengthened their collaboration as they navigated the lake, and Crate Stacking and Firecracker pushed them to trust one another as they climbed a suspended bridge. The Giant Swing was a highlight, where students relied on their peers to hoist them up before an exhilarating plunge, building trust and leadership.” 

The night also welcomed a different set of adventures, to be happily remembered both on the bus ride home and much later in life. Perception of the scenery around one changes under a darkened sky. Faculty and staff chaperones and students ventured on an evening hike, forging a closeness with the outside world, making s’mores and bonding under the stars. The final night was celebrated with a dance, ending the trip with movement and joy.

A Unique Collective Experience 

Middle School Dean Sekou Cox shared his excitement at the return of this Middle School tradition after five years. It was the first time many students had a sleepaway camp experience. Afterward, students told him the things they learned about themselves and their peers through the experience. “The Grade 8 trip to Camp Mason was a big success! Students took on challenges, tried new things, stepped up as leaders, collaborated and had a great time together—all without phones!”