High School Leader Program at Outdoor School

Thank you for your interest in the High School Leader Program at Outdoor School!

This program is a unique opportunity for high school students to develop valuable leadership skills while providing an excellent experience for 5th grade students. As a part of this initiative, you will not only contribute to the community but also enrich your personal growth.

Program Overview

As a participant in the leader program, you will be responsible for supervising the students in the cabins. Apart from making sure they are safe and well-behaved, you will get the chance to lead them in various activities like skits, songs, and stories. This is a wonderful way to develop your leadership skills while having fun with the younger students.

The joy of being a leader in this program extends beyond the three days of outdoor school. You will make lifelong friends with other high school leaders. The bonds that you form here could end up being the most cherished memories of your high school years.

Program Benefits

We understand the importance of a well-rounded experience. Leaders are given resources, daily training, and individualized advice as they progress through the program. Staff provides feedback and support throughout the day. Delicious meals will be provided for the duration of your stay at the Outdoor School. Additionally, transportation to and from Waskowitz & PSSC is provided.

What's more, you can also earn community service hours for your participation. For a 4-day program, you can be awarded 40 community service hours. This significant achievement can be included in college and job applications, demonstrating your commitment to community service and leadership. Highline School District students may also earn a one time 0.5 general elective credit by completing a full Outdoor School Program. 

How to Apply

Interested in joining us for this wonderful experience? You can sign up by completing the Application Form (currently unavailable) and joining the StudentSquare Group for Fall 2024. We provide more details and reminders in the StudentSquare group. Then you will have a teacher or counselor who knows you complete a Recommendation Form on your behalf. If you have not attended an LTW before (even if you have previously been a leader), you will be invited to attend Leadership Training Weekend, Saturday -Sunday, September 28-29.

Application Deadline: Friday, September 25, 5:00 p.m.

LTW RSVP Deadline: Friday, September 27, 12:00 p.m.

After your application and recommendation have been approved, Waskowitz staff process the information. Specialists will send you a program invitation via email. You must respond to the invitation to finalize your placement. Please practice your leadership by communicating.

We are looking forward to meeting you and creating unforgettable memories together!

Leadership Training Weekend (LTW)

We want to welcome all first-time or untrained Leaders to attend LTW. If you have been to LTW and Outdoor School in the past, you are not required to attend LTW. Please complete this years’ Application Form (currently unavailable) and join the StudentSquare group.

At LTW, we practice trail and cabin games, review expectations, and grow together as leaders. There is a mix of hiking, outdoor learning, and classroom learning. Saturday evening we will host a dance, skit and song show, and a campfire celebration. We are excited to kick off an amazing fall season!

Application Deadline: Wednesday, Sep. 25th, 5:00 pm

LTW RSVP Deadline: Friday, Sep. 27th, 12:00 pm

Fall 2024 Programs

We have a range dates available from October-December. Each program lasts for four days, and is subject to change. Please review the StudentSquare group for the most up-to-date information. Here are the available programs:

October:

• Tuesday - Friday, October 5-18
• Tuesday - Friday, October 22-23
• Monday - Thursday, October 28-31

November:

• Tuesday - Friday, November 5-8
• Tuesday - Friday, November 12-15
• Tuesday - Friday, November 19-22

December:

• Tuesday - Friday, December 3-6
• Tuesday - Friday, December 10-13
• Tuesday - Friday, December 17-20

After your application and recommendation have been approved, Waskowitz will send you a program invitation via email. You must respond to the invitation to finalize your placement.

Spring 2025 Partner Leader Programs

Certain programs are open only to verified individuals from our Partner School Districts. If you would like more information or to register for these programs, please reach out to our Outdoor Education Specialists.

Expectations and Responsibilities

All leaders are expected to do the following, with adult support:

• Set a positive example for 5th grade students and other High School Leaders.
• Supervise students in cabins, trails, dining hall, and evening activities.
• Open, honest, and timely communication with teachers and staff.
• Advocate for oneself and ask for help when needed. Communicate with your counselor, attendance specialist and administrator before and after attending.
• Lead songs, skits, cabin activities and trail games.
• Physical ability to be on-trail all day for at least three days.
• Help serve lunches on trail.
• Participate in leader meetings by being present, listening, engaging in activities, and offering feedback.
• Build leadership skills through various experiences and strengthen them over time.
• Build a deeper connection and relationship with nature and the outdoors.

More details can be found in the Leader Code of Conduct.

Packing List

Please put your name on everything you can!

1. Bedding: pillow and sheets w/ blanket or sleeping bag 
2. Warm clothing: extra socks, underclothes, shirts, pants, sweatshirt
3. Sturdy shoes suitable for hiking (a second pair is highly recommended)
4. Coat, raincoat, or poncho
5. Sunglasses, hat, beanie, mittens/gloves (optional)
6. Toothbrush, comb/brush, bath towel, shampoo, soap, deodorant, shower shoes (flip flops/sandals), etc.
7. Personal medication (medical authorization form from doctor must be completed)
8. Water bottle
9. Backpack for trail time.
10. Paperwork: Code of Conduct Agreement, Permission Form, Excused Absence Form, optional Medication Authorization Form. Please see the paperwork form attachments.

Do your best to fit your luggage into your backpack and a large duffel bag or rolling luggage. If your pillow won’t fit in your bag, we recommend covering it with a large plastic bag to prevent it from getting dirty or wet.