About Our High School Summer Semester
Designed for academically motivated 10th and 11th grade high school students, this summer semester program integrates rigorous coursework with experiential learning. Participants will earn official academic credits in advanced topics like Natural Science and Outdoor Leadership, along with certifications in Outdoor Leadership and Leave No Trace (LNT). Set against the backdrop of stunning landscapes, this program fosters a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship, leadership principles, and hands-on learning opportunities to inspire growth and achievement.
Locations
Course Overview
Through this interdisciplinary course, students engage in hands-on learning, drawing direct connections between their natural surroundings and the principles of ecology, biology, and environmental science. These courses foster critical thinking and leadership skills while offering practical knowledge and adventure.
Academic Focus
- Honors Natural Science: Advanced Topics in Anthropogenic Effects
- Elective in Principles in Leadership and Environmental Ethics
- Spanish Language (Ecuador only)
Certifications
- Outdoor Leadership
- Leave No Trace (LNT)
- Wilderness Medicine
Accredited Learning
We ensure that students’ hard work pays off. Participants in the Summer Block-Semester will earn official academic credits, transferable back to their home schools. These credits not only reflect the students’ mastery of course material but also the profound personal and leadership growth experienced during the program.
Leadership Development
Leadership is a cornerstone of NCOAE’s philosophy. Students are challenged to develop and refine their decision-making, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in real-time, under the guidance of experienced outdoor educators. Whether leading a group through backcountry expeditions or reflecting on personal leadership styles, students emerge with confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of responsibility.
Experiential Learning in Outdoor Education
Experiential education at NCOAE combines leadership development, hands-on learning, and practical certifications. Our programs immerse students in dynamic, real-world settings where adventure and academics intersect. Through activities such as mountain summiting, whitewater navigation, and backcountry skills, students engage in natural science firsthand—observing ecosystems, applying environmental principles, and understanding sustainability. Leadership is cultivated through teamwork, decision-making, and resilience-building in small groups, ensuring active participation and personal growth. Students leave with valuable certifications in outdoor leadership and Leave No Trace (LNT), equipping them with practical skills and academic knowledge that extend beyond traditional learning environments.
The NCOAE High School Summer Semester is more than a course—it’s an invitation to discover new horizons, challenge oneself, and form lasting connections with peers and the natural world. Students walk away with not just academic achievements, but a new perspective on leadership, responsibility, and their role in preserving our environment.