Finding Yourself Through Outdoor Education

At Jameson Ranch Camp, Poly’s ninth graders forge new connections through shared experiences, from working on the sustainable farm to singing around the campfire. The trip holds a special place in Poly’s Outdoor Education program: every student takes the same trip as a freshman, then reunites for a final outdoor experience on the Kern River as a senior.

“One of the core tenets of Poly’s Outdoor Education program is to build our students’ sense of community. We are extremely lucky to partner with Jameson Ranch Camp for our ninth grade trip,” said Margaret Kenny, an Upper School English teacher who chaperoned the trip. “Jameson provides many wonderful, unique opportunities for our students to grow together as a class, which is especially important as we welcome and incorporate new ninth graders into our school.”

Located about 40 miles northeast of Bakersfield, the camp allows students to practice archery, harvest fruit, and help one another carry equipment down the dusty hills—far from the typical demands of a school day. These activities encouraged students to support one another beyond the classroom.

“Outdoor Ed showed me that belonging originates from shared experiences,” said ninth-grader Sam G. ’30. “This special experience only brought my class closer together.”

The ninth grade trip reflects how Poly’s Outdoor Education program has evolved over the years. Director of Outdoor Education and Upper School English Teacher Laura Marion helped establish the Jameson Ranch partnership after learning about the camp through Poly families. What began as a smaller program grew into a full-class experience, giving all ninth graders a shared destination and dedicated time to build relationships.

“Because of our care in welcoming new ninth graders into our school, it’s especially important for them to have these opportunities to grow together as a class,” Marion said. “Every year I get to know so many kids that I'd never talked to before, get to know the kids I know better, and have really interesting conversations. For me that's the best part about it.”

Outdoor Ed creates similar opportunities across grade levels, with each trip offering a different setting for specialized interests. On this year’s Tall Ships trip, Kalia W. ’28 explored her interest in sailing by learning about ships and sails from a crew member. She also completed the requirements for her Los Angeles Maritime Institute deckhand certification.

One of Kalia’s favorite memories came during an early-morning watch. With music playing and a friend singing on deck, she began dancing barefoot, bringing her ballet training to an unexpected stage.

“I feel like this experience in some ways created a feeling of belonging for me, as I felt so at peace dancing, an activity I love, in an area so serene,” she said.

Through Outdoor Ed, students build relationships and discover new interests. Years later, alumni continue to remember these experiences as formative parts of their Poly education, connecting them with nature and fostering self-reliance.