A Rite of Passage  is an experience that enriches and challenges someone as they transition, or pass, from one phase of life to another. As our 8th graders prepare for the very exciting yet difficult leap from middle school to high school, we have prepared just such an experience. Their Rite of Passage will also challenge them to demonstrate what they learned as global leaders. Their ability to weigh perspectives, communicate ideas and take action will be necessary prior to and during this experience.

For this year’s ROP, students will spend the week of May 4th at camp! We have chosen an outdoor education camp in Paradise Springs, Big Rock Creek in the San Gabriel Mountains.http://paradisespringsbrc.com
                        
The camp is located in a mountain canyon, at an elevation of 5000 feet, a little over an hour from AGLA. Cold mountain springs feed a creek that runs through the camp, supplying trout pools and ponds with clear fresh water. The springs run year round, and provide some of the best drinking water in Southern California.

Our students will be studying freshwater ecology, geology, astronomy and wilderness survival skills. They will hike, swim, fish, and play hard! Team building activities will ensure their bond as a class will head into highschool with them.
 
As part of their Rite of Passage, the students are participating in a Community Mentor Project. Groups of students are paired with a community organization committed to environmentalism. The four groups chosen for our school are:

Grades of Green helps thousands of students and dozens of schools plan and implement ǵreen initiatives, such as recycling, composting and trash-free lunch programs as well as supporting students as they start environmentally friendly clubs.

The Alliance for Climate Education (ACE) educates and inspires young people to break through the challenge of climate change.  They help students take action, start clubs and provide opportunities big and small to have a meaningful impact on climate change.

Food Forward Food Forward rescues fresh local produce that would otherwise go to waste, connecting this abundance with people in need, and inspiring others to do the same.  Several Aveson students have volunteered with them already, picking and rescuing local fruit.

Antelope Valley Conservancy  creates preserves of functioning habitat and watershed resources in the Antelope Valley region. Wendy Reed, the chief financial officer and outreach coordinator skyped with our 8th graders, inspiring them to see the importance of preservation in the area.


Dont miss our Celebration of Learning, coming in June, where our 8th graders will present about their respective community partners and how they were able to get involved and make a difference.