Semester 2 is off to an exciting start at Mt. Sentinel, especially with the launch of our brand-new ORCA Program! This innovative, multi-credit course seamlessly integrates Outdoor Education and Culinary Arts, offering students a unique opportunity to develop leadership, teamwork, and communication skills in both the kitchen and the great outdoors.

Through hands-on learning, students will earn certifications in First Aid (OFA 1) and Food Safety (Food Safe 1) while gaining valuable experience in menu design and meal preparation. They will also play a key role in the planning and execution of Mt. Sentinel's hot lunch program, applying their culinary skills to support their school community.

Beyond the kitchen, ORCA students will engage in a variety of outdoor adventures, including skiing, snowboarding, avalanche education, winter backcountry travel, rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, canoeing, wilderness camping, and, of course, outdoor cooking. These experiences will help them develop resilience, problem-solving abilities, and an appreciation for the natural environment.

The program is structured to optimize experiential learning, with ORCA making up two of the four courses students take each semester. This flexible schedule allows Mr. Hildebrand to plan full-day and multi-day excursions with minimal impact on students' other classes.

Students are thrilled to kick off the semester with skiing and snowboarding at Whitewater and cross-country skiing at Nancy Greene—the perfect way to embrace the winter season while building outdoor skills and camaraderie.

Stay tuned for more updates as the ORCA crew embarks on this incredible journey!