CREW ORIENTATION
- Crew orientation helped 97% of students overcome challenges. as a member of a group.
- Crew orientation helped 95% of students communicate better with their crews.
- 100% of teachers say crew orientation supports & develops school culture & character.
WHEELS students belong to a Crew: a small student advisory group that usually remains together until graduation. Led by a Crew Advisor, Crews meet regularly to discuss college preparation, leadership development and personal challenges. Crews are central to positive school culture and the development of a trusting community. Crews provides a safe, consistent environment for students to practice their leadership skills, and to push each other to do more than they ever thought possible.
All incoming Crews and their Crew Advisors are sent on a wilderness challenge called Crew Orientation.
Crew Orientation
Crew Orientation is a four- or five-day, overnight wilderness challenge for all incoming students. Here, they experience the challenges of high-ropes courses and teambuilding initiatives, and develop the skills required to read maps and compasses, to safely backpack and camp, to cook and clean, and to communicate with one another under challenging circumstances.
This transformational week helps students develop individual and group leadership skills, build self-confidence to overcome challenges, and foster a community of mutual support that allows students to accomplish far more collectively than they ever could on their own. It also prepares students and advisors to return to school, where they will translate their new skills, inner strength and mutually supportive relationships toward academic achievement.
