Sixth Graders Build Confidence and Environmental Awareness at NorthBay

Last week, Holton sixth graders traveled to NorthBay, an environmental education center at the northern end of the Chesapeake Bay, for three days of hands-on science learning, outdoor adventure, and community-building experiences that challenged them to step outside their comfort zones.

Before the trip, students learned about Earth’s four systems—the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere—and the ways those systems interact. At NorthBay, they saw those concepts come to life. 

Through water quality testing, wetland studies, and a hike from the top of a cliff down to the beach below, students observed how water, wind, ice, and rock shape the Earth through weathering and erosion. They examined the importance of the water cycle, explored biodiversity in local ecosystems, and learned why protecting water sources matters. At Rising Tide Farm, students planted marigolds and snow peas, sampled fresh herbs, and considered how cultivating a relationship with the land can be a meaningful way to connect with the environment.

Students were often surprised by what they discovered about the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem.

“I learned that the Bay is partially salt water and partially fresh water—it’s called brackish water,” one student shared.

Another student was surprised to learn “that rivers from way up north connect all the way to the Bay.”

Others were fascinated by the wildlife they encountered, including turtles, otters, frogs, catfish, and eels.

For Grade 6 Science Teacher Heather Offen, the experience is about more than science content. “I hope students grow in their understanding of the world and their place in it,” she said. “NorthBay does a wonderful job of helping students understand some of the global challenges humans face—and how small actions can lead to big change.”

Beyond environmental learning, NorthBay trip gave students opportunities to build confidence and strengthen relationships through activities such as kayaking, high ropes, ziplining, hiking, and a giant swing.

“All adventure elements are challenge-by-choice, so each student got to choose how far they wanted to push themselves outside their comfort zone,” Offen said. “With the incredible encouragement of their classmates, many students tried things they said they would not have done without their friends’ support.”

Students frequently identified those moments of personal growth as highlights of the trip.

“I was proud when I jumped off the high ropes course on the bungee jump,” one student shared. “It was scary, but I did it anyway.”

Another reflected on learning to kayak for the first time: “It was scary at first because the kayak kept rocking, but soon I got the hang of it.”

Faculty also observed growth in quieter moments throughout the trip, particularly as students navigated shared responsibilities in their cabins and supported one another throughout the experience.

“For many students, this was their first overnight away from home,” said Mathematics Department Co-Chair and Lower School Mathematics Coordinator Sarah Coste. “They navigated it together with such care—from organizing shower rotations and keeping their shared space tidy to looking out for one another in small but meaningful ways.”

By the end of the trip, students returned with new scientific knowledge, stronger connections with classmates, and greater confidence in themselves.

Whether testing water quality, planting seeds, kayaking across the bay, or encouraging one another on the ropes course, students experienced firsthand how curiosity, courage, and community can deepen learning—both inside and outside the classroom.