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The Outdoor Recreation and Culinary Arts (ORCA) Program   
(SECOND SEMESTER ONLY)

The ORCA Program is a multi-credit course that integrates the realms of outdoor education and culinary arts.  Delving into concepts of leadership, communication, and teamwork, students will navigate the dynamic landscapes of both the culinary world and outdoor environments. Through hands-on experience, participants will earn certifications in First Aid (OFA 1) and Food Safety (Food Safe 1), learn about concepts of menu design and creation, and will contribute to the planning and execution of Mt. Sentinel's hot lunch program.

Engaging in a diverse array of activities, students will embark on enriching field trips throughout the semester. These outings encompass a spectrum of experiences, potentially including skiing/snowboarding, avalanche education, winter backcountry travel, rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, canoeing, wilderness camping, and, of course, outdoor cooking.  Students are expected to participate and engage in all out-trips; picking and choosing preferred activities is not an option. The culminating adventure of the 2024/2025 program is slated to be a multi-day, coastal hiking trip, exploring the epic Juan de Fuca Trail on Vancouver Island.

Note: The ORCA Program will have a brief application process to ensure students' commitment to full participation in all activities. By applying, students express their interest in engaging in the dynamic learning experiences of outdoor recreation and culinary arts.  This approach looks to ensure that participants are fully invested in the learning experiences offered by the ORCA program.

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Course codes for ORCA: 

OUTDOOR EDUCATION 11  | 12             MODED11  |  MODED12  (4 credits)
CULINARY ARTS 11 | 12                            MCUL12  |  MCUL12     (4 credits) 

Students should plan for two of four courses in the second semester to be scheduled as ORCA blocks.  A second Physical Education course during the semester of ORCA is not permitted. 

See Mt. Sentinel’s course guide for additional course selection information.