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Since 1972, Mountain Classroom has stood as a cornerstone of Proctor Academy's commitment to experiential learning. During the winter and spring terms, ten students and two experienced instructors embark on a ten week exploration of the American West, gaining first-hand experience from local activists and guest speakers. 

Combining outdoor education and academic inquiry, Mountain Classroom students examine the complex and intricate connections between nature and culture, while providing students the opportunity to learn through applied and integrated education. Through place-based history, literature, and science curriculum, students engage directly with the content they are learning, all while developing outdoor skills ranging from rock climbing, boating, backcountry trekking, and camp craft skills. Mountain Classroom is one of the most rigorous and rewarding educational experiences afforded to Proctor students. 
 

There is no way to truly encapsulate Mountain Classroom. How can I? There are no words to describe how close our little group became: the tears that were shared, the jokes traded back and forth, and the comfort of knowing you have people to depend on. - Chloe

Courses and credits

Students enrolled in Mountain Classroom receive the following course credits: 

  • Ecological Literature and Writing (English Credit)
  • Western American Issues (Social Science Credit)
  • Nature and Culture (Science Credit)
  • Expedition Skills
  • Group Dynamics

Contact Info:

To learn more about Mountain Classroom, contact Mountain Classroom Director Kayden Will 

Mountain Classroom: Learning Through Listening

Standing at the bottom of a desert wash as the sun set over layered rock formations, Lauren '25 listened as Thorson shared stories about his family's longstanding connection to the land and the sense of peace he still feels each time he visits. "He not only made me feel welcome to his land but also to his knowledge," Lauren writes.

Mountain Classroom: Solo Reflections from the Coconino National Forest

In this blog post, Isabel '25 reflects on her four-day solo experience in the Coconino National Forest. This powerful experience of solitude allowed students to connect with nature, confront their thoughts, and discover insights about themselves that only emerge when separated from the constant interactions of daily life.

Mountain Classroom: Wilderness First Aid Training and Adjunct Weekend Adventures

Spring 2025 Mountain Classroom off-campus program participants continue their adventures throughout the West Coast and the American Southwest! In this double post, we catch up with the group after they participated in an intensive Wilderness First Aid certification course and spent time with visiting faculty members during "adjunct weekend."

Mountain Classroom: Finding Beauty in Big Sur

As Mountain Classroom students concluded their backpacking expedition through the Los Padres Wilderness, Henry '25 reflected on the group's three-day journey through California's Big Sur region.

Mountain Classroom: From Santa Barbara to the Monterey Bay

Mountain Classroom students transition from Joshua Tree's desert to California's foggy coast, experiencing dramatic environmental contrasts while exploring marine ecology at Monterey Bay. Claire '26 recounts their adaptation to coastal conditions -- from frigid ocean swims to weatherproofing tents against persistent rain -- as they prepare for backpacking through the region's diverse ecosystems.

Mountain Classroom: First Ascents in Joshua Tree

Proctor's Mountain Classroom program has kicked off its spring term in Joshua Tree, where Anna '26 describes the group quickly adapting to expedition life while building community. Students have embraced rock climbing challenges that develop communication and trust, offering just a glimpse of their upcoming journey.

Mountain Classroom: The End of a Journey 

During each Mountain Classroom term, students with varied outdoor experience undergo a remarkable transformation through the deliberate progression of increasing responsibility and outdoor skills development.

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