We are waiting at our gate in Portland after a successful reentry to the US! We should board on time at 2:00, take off around 2:30, and arrive in Redmond by 3:20. Please check the flight status closer to pickup: Alaska Flight 3003. We cannot wait to see you soon! Expect a tired, smelly, smiling crew. ¡Pura vida!
We made it to the San Jose airport after a beautiful candlelight ceremony at the restaurant where we ate dinner. Our flight was delayed by 40 minutes, but we should begin boarding any minute. I will post an update if there is time at LAX-- remember that no news is good news!
This morning, we had the honor of welcoming a very special guest—Don Daniel, whose story left a deep impression on all of us.
Don Daniel shared the painful truth of his past: years ago, he worked for large pineapple and banana corporations. Under the cover of night, he was ordered to illegally bulldoze sections of the rainforest to make way for expanding plantations. The destruction was total—trees, animals, and entire ecosystems were buried, leaving no trace of the jungle by morning. Don Daniel also spoke about the use of pesticides, which killed animals, polluted rivers and lakes, and harmed the health of workers—many of whom are still suffering the consequences today.
Speaking about this chapter of his life, Don Daniel expressed deep sorrow and regret. He wasn’t allowed to tell anyone what he was doing; the powerful multinational companies kept their workers silent through threats to their jobs and livelihoods.
In 1999, driven by a desire to heal both the land and his own heart, Don Daniel joined seven others in purchasing a piece of land—his own farm. Since then, he has devoted himself to restoring what was lost, plant by plant, day by day. His commitment to organic, sustainable farming is not just about agriculture—it’s an act of resistance, healing, and hope. Today, it's his biggest goal to teach others about living in harmony in nature, and he lives in alignment with his values.
We spent our final hours using the last of our money at a little artisanal market the locals had set up just for us. Many last-minute souvenirs and gifts were bought—but I won’t say more, so I don’t spoil the surprise!
As I write this, we’re packing up and getting ready to leave this magical place. Before we go, we’ll have one final leadership session—'The Candle Circle'—a time to reflect on the past nine days, share our impressions and lessons, and recognize the personal growth and lasting impact this journey has had on us.
After that, we’ll head to the airport, with one last dinner along the way, and begin our long trip home. Everyone is looking forward to giving their families big hugs - hasta pronto!
Last night, we were invited by our wonderful homestay families to share a final dinner together—and what a night it turned out to be! Just as everyone gathered around for the delicious meal, the unexpected happened: the electricity went out. But instead of dampening the evening, it transformed the whole experience into something even more magical.
We enjoyed our dinner by candlelight, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere that made everything feel extra special. As we ate, little Sofia, our delightful 4-year-old homestay sibling, stole the show with a series of charming songs she had prepared for us. Her sweet voice and confidence brought smiles to everyone’s faces. Then, in a moment of pure joy, we all got up and danced together—young and old, host and guest—sharing laughs and making memories we'll never forget.
After dinner, it was time for the much-anticipated fiesta! Students and their host families all came together to celebrate. Professional dance instructors led us through fun steps and moves, teaching us traditional dances with infectious energy. As the evening went on, it turned into a full-blown dance party, full of laughter, rhythm, and connection.
It was a beautiful way to celebrate the friendships we've made, the culture we've embraced, and the experiences we've shared. A night without electricity, but one that glowed with so much light.
While the other two groups were taking their turns at the school and the nature reserve, our group spent the morning on an inspiring tour of Finca Orgánica el Paraiso, led by 3rd-generation organic farmer Aron. Students traveled the grounds learning all about the varieties of fruits, vegetables, and livestock cultivated at the farm while also having an opportunity to lend a hand in preparing soil for an upcoming crop rotation. Students were encouraged to taste the fruits of their labor throughout the tour, use their muscles to apply traditional tools in extracting the juice from sugar cane for a refreshing drink, while ending the experience with a delicious, elaborate lunch made with love by the joyful matriarch of La Finca.
Students finished up the day swimming in the river, having dinner with their homestay families, and enjoying an evening fiesta and dance with community members.
Highlights of the tour included:
· Learning about (and tasting) pepper, dragon fruit (see all the red tongues on the slide show!), pineapple, heart of palm, corn, sugarcane, and coffee
· Feeding local goats
· Worm farms and dry composting methods used with pigs
· Understanding the impact and benefits of Costa Rica’s volcanic legacy on organic farming
· Producing sugarcane juice using traditional methods
· Tasting local coffee
· A delicious organic lunch with an incredible view
Today we set out for La Fortuna, home of Costa Rica’s most iconic waterfall and volcano, one of the most beautiful backdrops for adventure. In Spanish, la fortuna translates to fortune, but it also carries deeper meanings: luck, happiness, opportunity, and sometimes even serendipity or chance. As our journey nears its close, I find myself reflecting on how fortunate I am to have traveled alongside this incredible group of thoughtful, brave, and endlessly curious students.
Here's a video of some moments from the day mixed with some of our favorite parts of our tica adventure thus far!
Our day began with two surprise sightings! A sloth, nestled in the trees, likely the baby we spotted from last year, still within its home territory, as Mag explained, and a toucan hovering overhead, almost as if it were watching over us. From there, we zipped through the rainforest canopy, hearts pounding and laughter echoing through the jungle.
There were plenty of nerves before that first zip line (there were 11 in total), but soon they gave way to laughter, cheers, and a few joyful screams (mine included!) and many Pura Vidas. We all felt like Tarzan. Flying through the treetops with the rainforest stretching out in every direction. It was one of those moments that snaps you into the present and reminds you just how alive you truly are.
Enjoy Nick’s photography of us flying through the air on the last zip.
Full from a hearty meal of delicious comida tica lunch and joking that we won’t eat rice and beans for another year (or some of us, for real!), we headed to the volcano, and we made our way to the base of the volcano to visit the famed waterfall. Racing the oncoming storm, we descended the 500 steps in just eight minutes and completed the full round trip in a record-breaking 45 minutes.
Then, we spent the afternoon exploring La Fortuna’s central plaza. Students picked up souvenirs, sampled Costa Rican snacks, and (unsurprisingly) ate some ice cream. As the skies opened up and cried, a huge lightning bolt of electricity hit the ground hard nearby and rattled us all. With luck on our side, we had a refreshing natural storm shower and swiftly hopped on the bus to head back to the jungle, our Costa Rican home.
As I sit down to write this, I’m filled with gratitude for this team, for this experience, and for each student who’s made this year unforgettable. These soon-to-be high schoolers have taken risks, asked big questions, and grown in ways that go far beyond the classroom. I started with most of them three years ago, and with proud tears in my eyes, I can’t believe it’s almost time to say goodbye.
When I say that I am SO proud of this group, it’s an understatement. I’m returning home with a full heart and a profound appreciation for the people and the moments that have made this journey so meaningful.
Thank you to every student, every family, and our amazing leadership team for making this journey possible. It’s been a privilege to share in this chapter of your children’s lives. And though I'll miss the chorus of “Profe Ama?” ringing through the air, I leave this experience and past three years together feeling truly afortunada.
Un abrazo fuerte,
Profe Ama
Today my community rotation group went to Lapa Verde (Green Macaw), a nature preserve down the street from our Eco Retreat in Chilamate. We began our session in the air-conditioned lab--a treat for all on an especially humid and hot day--where our host, Biologist Jonathan, showed us two macro videos made last year by the preserve. These beautiful videos taught us about two toxic bioindicating species native to this region, the Blue Jeans frog and the “Pretty Face” salamander. Both breathe through their skin, so they cannot survive in highly polluted environments. Jonathan’s love for his work is only surpassed by his knowledge, which he patiently and generously shared in Spanish and English with our group.
During our learning session, students competed to identify the animals Jonathan had captured on the camera traps strategically placed around the preserve. I was so impressed with their animal naming skills, as well as their ability to compete fiercely about almost anything 😂
We were able to see more of the preserve when we walked around the trails, deciding where to place new camera traps. In years past, we put the cameras on the trees with fabric straps. However, Jonathan explained that they now have to use locking cables and metal boxes for the cameras because poachers, assuming the cameras are there to catch them if they enter the preserve, have destroyed this valuable research equipment.
You can feel a sense of calm, exhaustion, and introspection settling in here in Costa Rica. Students started this expedition desperate for every experience, racing to be first or to take seconds. But as the trip goes on, I see a transformation. This morning, Ethan took a moment to himself. When we talked later, he explained that it was sinking in that he only had so long left with these people in this unique time in his life. I, too, am savoring the bittersweetness of this adventure, which marks a confusing but beautiful culmination. We have only a few days left to share here at the summit before we begin the descent that will mark not just the end of a trip but the end of middle school and the dissolution of this special Seven Peaks community. I can't help but begin to mourn this loss here in Costa Rica, where I cannot shake the knowledge that each first we share will also be a last. Yet another reason to fully embrace the pura vida life while we can. ¡Qué riquísima está nuestra vida aquí en Costa Rica!
Megan
Lorenzo Ezra every time he looked in the microscope:
"Oh, woooooow. Incredible."
"Estamos viviendo con todos estos animales!"
(We are living with all of these animals!)
With eyes wide open, Peytana
This morning, we broke into our four advisory groups and began the day with a hike through the rainforest adjoining our lodgings. Led by four local, seasoned naturalists, students were quietly led through a series of rugged trails, spotting an enormous variety of indigenous wildlife. Birds of prey, bullet ants, poison dart frogs, basilisk lizards, howler monkeys, iguanas, goldcup mushrooms, enormous termite nests, millepedes, bats, red-eyed frogs, and tropical birds with magnificent coloring were some of the highlights. Being led by trained experts in the field, students and teachers alike recognized that when slowing down and allowing all of our senses to adapt to the landscape and observe, it is incredible what lies right before us. There was much we had missed in our previous walks when we didn’t know how and what to look for. Now that we have all seen the incredible amount and diversity of wildlife directly around us, I know that we are all excited to continue the search with our newly trained eyes.
After a relaxing lunch back at the Eco-Resort, Seven Peaks students loaded buses for a fabulous whitewater adventure down the Rio Sarapiquí. Again, led by seasoned guides, our class navigated a series of Class 2 and Class 3 rapids over a solid stretch of water with lots of opportunities for swimming and wildlife gazing. It was a little taste of home for those who have had the opportunity to make their way down “Big Eddy” in Bend, although with a definite, local Central American feel. Wildlife looked somewhat familiar (cormorants, turkey vultures, herons, even a rare spotting of a Costa Rican white-tailed deer), but was fresh and novel in the luscious jungle environs. Also spotted on the trip were a beautiful pair of scarlet macaws flying overhead and the sound of toucans in the distance (heard but still, as of yet, unseen). The bounty of wildlife does not cease to amaze. In addition to the fun on the water, it was also a joy to witness the students engaging with the locals enjoying the river on a warm, tropical day. Students would send out a friendly “Pura Vida!” as our neighbors replied with a big smile and the same. The sense of community here is palpable. After a well-deserved mid-river snack of pineapple and cookies (a new favorite combo), we all returned to the grounds for a relaxing evening of low-key activities to prepare for another fun-packed day tomorrow.
Another beautiful day here in Costa Rica!
I woke up feeling thankful and grateful for being able to experience another day of PURA VIDA, and join your students on this amazing experience. The days have been filled with activities, business, and valuable experiences, but so is my heart and soul! It has been so special for me to get to know everyone of your children, and I have been amazed how open-minded they have approached each new experience - like trying new food, being outside of their comfort zones, dealing with the heat, and pushing themselves to speak Spanish and be real risk-takers!
The day started without any rain, and it already felt like it would be the hottest day of the trip so far.
After another filling and delicious breakfast, the “leaders of the day” took us through AMP (analyze, manage, and prepare) to get us ready for the activities of the day. It has been really special to see the students take ownership of this process and display their communication skills with their classmates.
Today, we spent the morning playing soccer, or as they say here in Costa Rica, fútbol, against some local students. It was a hot day to play fútbol, but that didn't stop the students from giving their very best. The soccer drills and practice were led by a famous professional soccer player, Chino! Another highlight was spotting some Macaws right before the games started!
Meanhwile, Profe Ama did some yoga and wonderful connections were made throughout the morning. At the end, everyone bonded over some well-deserved ice cream.
Afterwards, the students visited their homestay families for lunch (almuerzo), some time to play with their families' children, experience the real authentic Costa Rican life, and have more time to practice their Spanish.
After our almuerzos with the homestay families, we took a short bus ride to the “Costa Rica Best Chocolate” ecotourism tour. Guía led us through the whole undertaking of turning cacao into chocolate. The students had the opportunity to see and try out each step in the process, which included fermentation, drying, roasting, shelling, and grinding.
In addition to the interactive parts, the guide helped us to realize that one of the most important things for their organization is to make sure that their chocolate production is done in an ecologically sustainable way and that the local community benefits from tourist groups like ours. They even set up one day each year when the locals are able to come to visit the chocolate tour for free!
The highlight for everyone was all the taste testing that we got to do: cacao beans right out of the pod, roasted beans, liquid chocolate, comparing industrial and homemade chocolate, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, more, more, more! It was all so good and we couldn’t get enough!
After all of the chocolate eating, there was some time for purchasing treats to share at home (if they don’t eat it all here!) and then it was back to the eco-resort for another yummy dinner! We finished off the evening, with another round of ANCHOR reflections led by Harlow, Declan, and Lilly!
Profe Ama has been busy collecting special moments and memories from all the students - enjoy reading about your students...
“Profe Ama, how am I going to return to the States and eat PB and J every day after that lunch?!” - Delainey
Profe Ama: “What are you doing, Jude?”
Jude: “I’m making a list of my favorite combinations of Costa Rican food.”
“I love that the chocolate guy taught us life-lessons while eating chocolate.” - Ian
“Profe Ama, it’s a ca-cow!” (Pointing to a cow while in the cacao chocolate tour) — Nicolás
Liam and Delainey’s Lime Discovery
During their homestay meal today, Liam and Delainey embraced the spirit of exploration by trying several different kinds of limes—turns out, not all limes are sour! One of the most surprising discoveries was a sweet lime, which sparked great conversation and curiosity about local fruits and flavors. Their openness to trying new things has been inspiring! Valentina, the 6 year old in Delainey’s homestay family, literally held her hand the entire time too!
Lilly and the Fruit Feast
One of my favorite moments was watching Lilly enjoy fresh sugar cane with her host family. When I first showed up to the girls’ house (Sofia, Lilly, and Priya Ziva), I was greeted with an incredible spread of local fruit, so much color, sweetness, and generosity. The girls were beaming, and it was such a special moment of cultural exchange and hospitality.
Spanish in Action
Peytana and Romeo have been shining in their efforts to communicate with me all in Spanish, and they aren’t alone! Many students are pushing themselves to use the language daily, whether with host families, guides, or even with each other, even when the other person initiates in English. It’s been heartwarming to see their confidence grow with every phrase and sentence. Ted Oso Teddy can be caught chit-chatting with anyone and everyone. Pablo Ethan has also been pushing himself to speak, especially driving our practice soccer match and during the real thing this morning!
Sending Love to Sr. Cardwell
When the students heard that Señor Cardwell was in bed down with a cold, Juan Kian wanted to FaceTime him and Luna Elsie wanted to tell him about the macaws so many made him video messages, and Evan and Ian brought him food. Their thoughtfulness and sense of community reminds me just how much they care for one another, and how we are becoming a caring, compassionate family.
Yoga with Fía
Fía and I took some time to slow down and did yoga together during the soccer break. Amidst the energy of travel and adventure, this quiet moment of reflection and movement was grounding and rejuvenating for both of us. Chino, the soccer coach, even came over to partake in the fun!
Harlow’s Cacao Courage
Trying fresh cacao for the first time can be a bit intimidating, but Harlow stepped up bravely and was the first to give it a try! Her adventurous spirit helped encourage others to follow, and we all got a taste of this fascinating fruit that is central to Costa Rican culture.
Conversations with Alejandro
Lisa Liesl, Siete Sevi, and I had a rich conversation with Alejandro, one of our local Chilamate WLS guides about the exportation of pineapples and bananas yesterday. We discussed not only the economic impact but also the environmental consequences these industries have on Costa Rica. It was a powerful and thought-provoking exchange that left a lasting impression on all of us. Plus, their constant hugs, empathy and compassion are so appreciated!
Everyday Brilliance
Kempy has brought such a consistently positive attitude to each day, always ready with a smile and enthusiasm. Evan has shown gentle kindness to those around him, often offering help before anyone asks. Ezra’s deep curiosity has led to thoughtful questions and meaningful engagement. Sloane and Adriana Audrey have taken risks with language and conversation (and food, too!) showing courage and an eagerness to connect. I am so proud of both of them! Owen is embracing new experiences with a great balance of heart, curiosity, and a touch of humor. Cullen and Ian’s calm patience has been a steadying force in the group, quietly leading by example. Máximo Jackson fearlessly speaks up and is always excited to share stories and enthusiastic moments with me in Spanish. Isaac is asking me how I’m doing and very mindful and conscientious of his peers. He even brought food to a student having a hard moment.
Declan Steps Up
Declan has truly stepped into his leadership role, using what he knows to communicate with his homestay family and bringing great energy to our soccer game today. His effort, positivity, and thoughtfulness as leader of the day did not go unnoticed.
Faustino’s Joy
Watching Faustino’s big smile as he interacted with the local elementary students during their performance was pure magic. His joy was contagious as he gleefully played alongside the younger kids, creating such a heartwarming scene of cross-cultural friendship.
Cameron’s Confidence
Cameron has shown such admirable courage in speaking up for himself and expressing his needs, an important and often difficult thing to do in a new environment. His self-awareness and bright, ever-present smile is contagious.
Jude’s Thoughtful Reflections
Jude has stood out for his willingness to reflect deeply and share honestly during group discussions and activities. His openness and thoughtful contributions help set the tone for meaningful conversations, and it’s been a joy to watch him engage so authentically, and pushing his comfort zone in so many ways.
Roman and Kian’s Comic Relief
Roman and Kian have been the heart of our group’s laughter with their theatrical flair and playful antics. Their humor brings so much lightness and joy to our days, always reminding us to stay playful and connected.
Gratitude for Our Leader Team
A special acknowledgment to Dr. Kruer, Sra. Lyke, and Sr. Cardwell. I truly could not do this without their support. Despite some personal challenges among our leadership team, we continue to lead with deep empathy, heart, and unwavering care, for one another and for each of the students. I’m so grateful for each of them.
Each of these moments is a reminder of why we do trips like this, where learning goes far beyond the classroom walls. These kids are not only exploring a new place, but also growing in empathy, confidence, and global awareness. I feel lucky to be on this journey with them!
— Profe Ama
We’re officially in the rhythm of Pura Vida, and most of us even got more than three hours of sleep last night. Woo hoo!
We awoke early to the sound of a torrential downpour around 4:00 a.m., but the steady patter of rain on the roof quickly lulled us back to sleep. We started the day with a vibrant breakfast of fresh, colorful tropical fruits, gallo pinto (of course!), fueling up for our very first day of activity rotations.
With our bellies full, we marched off to three different community locations. You'll get a closer glimpse of each of the rotations in the following blog posts.
But today I want to highlight one of the most heartwarming parts of our experience so far: our visit to the local school.
We were greeted with open arms and huge smiles and the entire school community. Primary kiddos from kindergarten to sixth grade put on a beautiful presentation for us. As part of their Festival de las Artes, they shared a traditional Costa Rican dance performance that left us inspired and full of joy. The energy, the color, and the pride in their culture were contagious.
Then, the magic of cultural exchange truly came to life. Our students were invited to join in on the dancing, not just the traditional dances, but also fun favorites like “Waka Waka,” which had everyone moving. In return, our SPS students taught them some of our own classics like the Macarena and a TikTok dance called “Apple.” We also shared songs we’ve sung together throughout the years, including “Pío Pío Pío” and “Como La Flor.”
After the music, we broke into smaller groups and played games like Simon Says and Duck Duck Goose. It was deeply moving to watch our students connect so naturally with kindness, warmth, and playfulness. Their gentle approach and curiosity with the local children reminded me exactly why I love teaching language and culture so much.
On the field, soccer games broke out with older kids, while younger ones laughed and played Red Light, Green Light. I’ll never forget the moments of pure connection — the giggles, the hugs, the spontaneous high-fives. Those echoes of joy will stay with us forever.
A few highlights:
Faustin gave his turn to a younger girl so sweetly who was bummed she was out of the game
Maximo Jackson stepped in to help a child who fell, quietly, kind and present.
Nick’s dance moves were unforgettable and brought so many smiles.
Juan Kian turned Duck Duck Goose into a theatrical event (no surprise there! ), delighting everyone.
Peytona, Priya, and Cullen received hand-drawn art from a couple of the kids.
Jude absolutely rocked out to “Pío Pío.” Music really does transcend language.
Lisa, Liesl, Siete, Sevi, and Cameron stepped outside their comfort zones, joyfully joining in the dancing and warmly holding hands with many of the local students.
We ended our time at the school with a delicious lunch on campus and thoughtful conversations about the differences between the Costa Rican and U.S. educational systems. I was so proud to see our students not only asking questions in Spanish but also engaging in lunch-table conversations with genuine curiosity, both with the teachers and each other.
Later in the day, just before our ethnobotany class began, we were lucky enough to spot a Jesus Christ lizard, named for its ability to run on water!
Our class introduced us to the wonders of native plants. We painted our faces with achiote, tasted sweet and bitter leaves, and explored the powerful scents of local herbs like strong basil and lemongrass. The experience ended with fresh cocos. Nothing tastes better after a warm day of learning.
This year, for the first time, we’re doing homestay family meals, and what a powerful experience it has been. In groups of 3–4, our students visited nine different local families for dinner.
At my homestay meal with Nick, Teddy, and Ezra, I was moved to tears listening to their conversations — playing Uno, asking thoughtful questions in Spanish, and laughing together with their host family. The stories from all the students that came pouring out when we reunited on the bus were full of wonder, growth, and genuine connection.
We ended our day with our evening A.N.C.H.O.R. reflection circle, where gratitude was abundant. Our leaders of the day, Ethan, Teddy, and Sevi, did a beautiful job guiding us through the reflections.
Each day here is unfolding into something more meaningful than we could have imagined. And, it’s only Day 3!
Today we transferred from San Jose to the rainforest that will be our home in Chilamate for the next 8 days. The road here is windy and pops us in and out of the clouds. It’s incredible, if terrifying, to experience a mountain pass here in Costa Rica. As we drove, students remarked on the lack of shoulders and held their breath as we squeezed through spaces that would seem impassable in the States. As always, our driver delivered us safely to our new home in the Sarapiqui region.
When we arrived at the Eco Retreat, we met with the owner and caretakers of this jungle treasure. Then we settled into our rooms before enjoying our first Tica-style meal at CRER. Everyone always has enough to eat here, which I know our parents appreciate, is no easy feat with this crew!
Our schedule changed a bit today. Instead of starting with the Ethnobotanist (pushed back to tomorrow), we began with the Adventure Race, the perfect opportunity for the estudiantes to show their well-honed collaboration skills.
The initial test of their teamwork included being taped up together with their group members and walking as a unit to the “starting line” without breaking the tape! Then it was on to the 5 “passport control” stations in the local community. The students had to orient themselves with the map to the activities, which included learning about and tasting sweet yucca, flipping a raft over and climbing back into it, learning some local dance moves, making and eating their own tortillas, and even milking a cow!
This year, we did this all in Spanish! Students used their developing language skills with creativity, humor, and endlessly positive attitudes. I was able to witness so many special connections happening. Whether it was Audrey asking a little girl her animal favorito (it was a perro, by the way) or Isaac recalling the name of the two types of yucca (dulce y… no me acuerdo!).
They also showcased how caring and reflective they can be. At the start of the activity, the classic middle school competitiveness launches us. However, quickly, we settle into the pura vida life that makes Costa Rica such an incredible place to visit. As I sat at the last station with my group, having just made a batch of tortillas ricas, which our host topped with a potato filling and complemented with sweet tea, we just sat together quietly, listening, smelling, looking at everything still to discover.
We came back from the race to dinner and our first ANCHOR session. ANCHOR is a hallmark of the WLS program and stands for Appreciations, News, Concerns, Health, Ohh, that’s cool!, and Reflection. Tonight’s appreciations were especially meaningful to me.
I want to share that my dear grandma passed away yesterday at the age of 97. She was the rock of my family my whole life, and learning of her death her while waiting to board in LAX was a shock. At the same time, it’s hard to imagine a more supportive group to be with when dealing with a loss. Romeo held my hand when I heard and I had a line of students waiting to give me a hug and offer comfort. I feel so lucky to be here now with your kids, who truly feel like family to me.
With so much love and appreciation,
Megan
After a long final leg of our travel day, we are finally settled in at the Adventure Inn in San Jose. We were warmly welcomed by our WLS leaders, Mag, Gracie, and Alejandro (a Chilamate native!), who had our rooms ready and snacks in the kitchen. We will push back our departure tomorrow to give us a bit of time to rest and enjoy this beautiful hotel before we head to the Eco Retreat. ¡Pura vida!
Hello 8th-Grade Families! We are greatly looking forward to our end-of-year expedition to Costa Rica with our incredible 8th-grade class. This blog is where we will post field notes, pictures, and videos during our trip. Get ready to follow our adventures in CR!
As a seasoned trip leader, Profe Ama has created a strong pre-travel program for our Costa Rica expedition. One important aspect of that preparation is setting group goals. Here are the goals students developed this year. Next Thursday, students will add their personal goals, too. These goals help us focus on what's important throughout the trip. This year, we were really excited to be able to write the goals in Spanish and English! Stay tuned for an update about our language immersion goal.