Elementary School
Fourth graders participate in a three-day trip to Lazy W Ranch in San Juan Capistrano to study California history, including the gold rush, early Spanish settlers and Native American tribes. Activities include panning for gold; testing out hydraulic mining; nature hikes; and a nighttime campfire. The group tours the Ocean Institute in Dana Point and takes a cruise to examine local coastal marine populations. For five days, fifth graders study marine environments at Catalina Island Marine Institute at Toyon Bay. Students participate in marine life labs and activities including snorkeling, ocean kayaking, hiking, and rock-wall climbing. During free time, students play group games and explore the beach for sea glass and other “treasures.” At night, students take an astronomy walk, dissect squids, snorkel and enjoy a campfire.