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“A Real-Life Example of Grit I Can Use in the Classroom”

Waypoint programs aren’t just about having fun. Adventures that are challenging teach us something about ourselves. We discover strength, power, and perseverance that we didn’t know we had. Lazarus Lake, creator of the Barkley Marathons, says it best: “You can’t accomplish anything without the possibility of failure.” Waypoint programs create a supportive environment for people to take on these challenges… yes, WITH the possibility of failure. It’s only through these experiences that we learn and grow.

Eileen Turpin, head teacher of the 3rd-5th grade Special Ed classroom at Cyrus E Dallin Elementary School in Arlington understands the power of challenges for her students. When Shannon or Zachary put on a harness and step up to that wall, they don’t know if they’re going to be able to climb it, but there’s enduring value in the struggle. Read what Ms. Turpin says about her class’s experience Indoor Rock Climbing at Central Rock Gym in Watertown:

“It has become abundantly clear that there is a set of social-emotional skills that are important for students’ success. Our entire elementary school has been working on one of these key skills: Grit. Going rock climbing with Waypoint provided a real life example for students of how grit is important not only in the classroom but throughout their lives.

All of our students were able to push themselves further than they thought they could while rock climbing with the support of their peers and Waypoint staff. After our field trip, I found myself discussing how to be a supportive classmate when someone takes a risk. I was able to reference how it felt for every student to hear their peers cheer for them and provide them with encouraging words while they were climbing, and immediately every child understood exactly what I meant.

Now I have the ability to point out that every time they climbed a wall, they made it further than they had previously; Similar to how the more they practice and push themselves, they will get a little further in their learning each time. The novelty of rock climbing is a lasting memory my students will carry with them as a real life example of how grit and determination can help them achieve their goals. For me, it is an example I will continue to tie to classroom concepts throughout the year.”

We’ve heard it over and over again: Teachers are using experiences their students have had with Waypoint to teach concepts in the classroom. Grit applies to academic learning, projects, homework, friendship, relationships, fears, and so much more. It’s fundamental! We’re thrilled to be able to partner with Arlington Public Schools for adventures like these:

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