Travel Programs
Middle School Retreat
“We, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.” Paul’s words in Romans 12:5, reflect the theme for the annual middle school retreat. In early September, all sixth through eighth graders and their teachers spend three days and two nights at the Lutheridge Conference Center. This time away from home and school provides students with the opportunity to strengthen current friendships and create new ones while also challenging them to work together as a community.
The Lutheridge counselors lead the students in small and large group games that test their ability to communicate clearly, lead effectively, and trust one another. Other activities, such as the climbing tower and Group Interaction Course, force students to face their fears. Students are often amazed at what they are able to do with the support and encouragement of their peers and teachers.
Each morning begins with a quiet time for students and teachers to study and pray through a passage of Scripture. Large group sessions dig deeper into the assigned readings and include time for corporate worship. After dinner, students are divided into groups by grade and gender to discuss how to apply the Biblical principles they have learned in specific, practical ways.
No retreat experience would be complete without fun surprises along the way. In the past, students have enjoyed special concerts, humorous skits, and late-night stories by the campfire, followed by s ’mores for dessert. Playing Capture the Flag in the dark always proves to be one of the most popular activities. The retreat provides a common experience and theme upon which to build for the remainder of the year.
Eighth Grade Trip to Washington D.C.
The eighth grade trip to Washington, D.C., is perhaps the event most anticipated by every middle schooler at Veritas Christian Academy. Each May, the eighth grade class spends a week at Marymount University, located in Arlington, Virginia. Under the guidance of their teachers, students explore the historical, political, artistic, and social aspects of life in our nation’s capitol. The sight of impressive monuments built to honor our greatest presidents, the careful preservation of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution, and the respect shown to those who died for our freedom through the war memorials and Arlington Cemetery demonstrate our country’s emphasis on remembering the past. An extensive tour of the Capitol Building, including a conversation with our local Congressman and the opportunity to see lawmakers debate on the House floor, remind students of the seriousness of the work being carried out by our politicians every day.
For many students, this is their first opportunity to experience life in a big city. They discover the ups and downs of city life, from the easily accessible treasures found in the Smithsonian Museums to the challenges of crowded subways and misread maps. They also find time to cheer for the Washington Nationals at a major league baseball game, laugh at the antics of the pandas at the National Zoo, and relax at the dorm while discussing the events of the day. This trip offers students the opportunity to apply what they have learned thus far and to begin entertaining new ideas and questions that will establish a foundation for the Rhetoric phase of their classical education.
One of Veritas students' favorite experiences is the annual High School retreat held in September. Students spend three days at Lutheridge Conference Center in Arden, NC. The days are filled with a variety of activities, games and free time to explore the outdoors. The retreat offers a wonderful opportunity for students to establish their friendships and to build a foundation for their Veritas community. Students and teachers benefit from this time that is set aside to encourage healthy and adventurous interaction outside of the classroom. Every child will have this opportunity to enjoy good fellowship and to build memories with their peers and teachers.
Some of the students' favorite activities include playing Capture the Flag, bocce ball, and volleyball. Each evening an event is planned that encourages dynamic interaction among the students. In 2007, the students were surprised with a night of dance instruction led by a teacher from a local ballroom. They learned the Carolina Shag and danced the night away under the stars. Veritas' very own Becky Stone shared local ghost stories around a fire the following evening.
Each year, the students return from the retreat with a variety of memories and experiences that help to establish a unique bond. It is a wonderful way to begin the school year.
Senior Class European Trip
Veritas Christian Academy is a unique environment. The interaction between our methodology, our spiritual dimension, and our curriculum are distinctive. We seek to educate students for God’s glory and to do so in innovative yet practical ways. This tradition culminates with the senior class trip. After studying the Western world extensively for four years, all of our near graduates have the opportunity to see for themselves what they have read about, analyzed, and discussed. This trip is a capstone to the Veritas education.
The senior trip takes place over spring break and includes tours of Paris, Rome, and Florence. Our students have visited Pompeii, Milan, San Gimignano, and Siena. This annual trip is extensive and includes guided tours through Vatican City, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, through Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the ancient streets of Florence. Every trip brings new experiences and new insight for our students.
We want all of our graduates to leave Veritas with both the knowledge and the experience of the Western world. This is a great cause and an opportunity that all Veritas students will have one day.
