Foothills Blog

Over the past two weeks, the Foothills hallways have buzzed with the kind of joyful energy that only comes from students returning from something big—not just a trip, but an experience. The hugs, the laughter, the shared inside jokes are the visible parts. What’s less visible, but perhaps even more lasting, are the shifts within: a steadier voice, a more assured stride, a deeper understanding of themselves and the world.

At Foothills, Spring Trips aren’t a break from learning. They are learning. They reflect our belief that education at its best is active, integrated, and rooted in real-world connection. These trips are thoughtfully designed to match developmental stages—stretching students toward new kinds of thinking, responsibility, and discovery.

A second grader navigating their first overnight stay is building the emotional foundations of independence and self-trust. A sixth grader collaborating on campfire meals is flexing skills in executive function, communication, and empathy. And our ninth graders—traveling out of the country, engaging with new languages, cultures, and customs—are practicing global literacy and agency. These aren’t one-off adventures; they’re academic experiences, rich with relevance and rigor.

Back on campus, the learning continues—but something has shifted. Students return with fresh momentum. Their curiosity feels renewed. Their confidence isn’t performative—it’s earned. These trips amplify what we value most: not only strong academic outcomes, but a strong sense of self.

We often say that children are capable—and these trips are one of the clearest ways we live that belief. They give students the chance to lead, to stumble, to support one another, and to rise to challenges that can’t be neatly mapped out in a lesson plan.

If you haven’t yet, we encourage you to watch this video from our recent Parent Coffee, where students share reflections in their own words. What you’ll hear isn’t rehearsed. It’s real, it’s personal—and it’s the kind of learning that lasts.

Learn more here about why we do spring trips and what meaningful, joyful learning looks at Foothills.