Building Bonds and Character at High School Retreat

Just a few weeks into the school year, many of our Great Hearts academies hold an annual high school retreat, something that has become a tradition for both students and teachers, offering a unique break from the usual classroom setting.

Glendale Prep’s High School Retreat was held at Lost Canyon, a Young Life camp located in Williams, Arizona. Perched at an elevation of 7,000 feet just 30 miles west of Flagstaff, the camp offered the perfect setting for the retreat. Although it’s technically a campground, it provided an elevated experience that combined the beauty of nature with modern comforts. Spending three days in the cool mountain air with stunning views and resort-like amenities made it an ideal place for students to relax, stay active, and enjoy their time.

This retreat is a crucial part of the school’s efforts to build a close-knit community and live out its commitment to making students feel known and loved. “Our largest group ever, over 300 students, 14 teachers, and 30 parents, have been enjoying the cool weather and making so many memories,” explained Headmaster Kyle Navarrette.

While Glendale Prep’s curriculum focuses on the pursuit of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty, the retreat provided a different kind of education. It taught students about teamwork, camaraderie, and shared experiences. By stepping out of the classroom and into a new environment, students engaged in a form of learning that was personal and deeply rooted in the relationships they built at the retreat.

The camp featured a variety of outdoor activities, including a zipline, a giant swing, a swimming pool, volleyball and basketball courts, and fields for sports like softball and ultimate frisbee. Indoor activities included ping pong, board games, and karaoke. There were also quieter spots for activities such as sitting around a campfire to share stories or making arts and crafts projects under the shade of trees. This balance of high-energy activities and calm moments made Lost Canyon the perfect backdrop for the retreat.

For new students, the retreat was particularly significant. Starting high school in a new environment can be overwhelming, but the retreat provided a chance to integrate into the Glendale Prep community. By the end of the retreat, many students said they felt a greater sense of belonging and excitement for the school year ahead.

This year’s retreat was a success thanks to the hard work and commitment of faculty and parents. “I want to give a special shout out to Mrs. Haley for coordinating this event on top of her Office Manager responsibilities, Mr. Overson for leading the cleaning crew, and to all our faculty and parents who volunteered,” shared Navarrette.

The retreat also served to set the tone for the school year. By bringing together students from different grades and backgrounds, the retreat promoted a sense of unity and shared purpose that the faculty hopes will continue to grow throughout the year. Whether bonding over s’mores or cheering on teammates, the memories made will have a lasting impact long after students return to campus, helping students become not just better learners but also better people.

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