6th Grade Camp Teaches Life Lessons to Students

Mrs. Carinna Freeman, Three Oaks Public School Academy sixth-grade teacher, has a big heart. She is willing to go to great lengths to make sure her students get all the necessary opportunities to thrive in school and in their community. 

On September 23 through 25, the sixth-grade class of Three Oaks went to Camp Newaygo for a two-night, three-day team building trip. During the trip they were able to participate in many activities that they have never experienced. Being out of the city and in an outdoor area allowed them to participate in things such as kayaking, canoeing, archery and other adventures.

students at campStudents learned that success does not happen by themselves, it takes a village. During one of the activities, students had to help each other up a ladder. The lesson learned during this activity was that they had to lean on each other to reach success.

“The whole three days were full of “wow” moments,” Freeman commented. “The best was when the class had to compete against one another. Little did we know that what we thought was a competition really was a team-building activity. It helped us all remember that we need each other to succeed. It was a powerful moment when everyone realized that the activity was really about being a team and leaning on each other. It wasn’t about us individually, but as a whole.” 

There were also bigger takeaways from some of the students that may help alter their path this year. Students canoeing

For example one of the sixth-grade students said that being with classmates and teachers in a safe and beautiful setting away from all the craziness of life helped her out of “depression.” 

Other teachers who came along to chaperone observed that the sixth-grade class is special and their teamwork is amazing. Ms. Freeman has done an exceptional job to create a safe, warm learning environment where students can thrive.

“Students are forming bonds with classmates, leaning on each other for help, and being proactive leaders in and around school and home,” Monecia Vasbinder said, principal at Three Oaks Public School, commented. “We are lucky to have Mrs. Freeman leading the way in the sixth-grade classroom. We are excited to see how these students grow and progress in their education.”