Mountain Classroom | Proctor Academy

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: The Desert is Old and Wise

"I can truly say I trust each one of these people with my life, literally. And it's only day 7.” Click to read more from Annie ’26!

Mountain Classroom: Colorado River Reflections

Mountain Classroom wrapped up their winter term in the Southwest with a four-day canoe trip on the Colorado River. Emily '27 captures the final outing and reflects on the term.

Mountain Classroom: Resilience in Death Valley

When plans for a backpacking trip through Death Valley's Surprise Canyon were derailed by illness, the group adapted. Evan '26 reflects on resilience, presence, and thriving in adverse conditions.

Mountain Classroom: Climbing in Joshua Tree

"Rock climbing in Joshua Tree was an experience that will stay with all of us, for it not only left its mark on our hands and scraped knees, but also allowed us to connect with the earth in a way unlike any other." Read more from Sedona '26.

Mountain Classroom: Welcomed into the Navajo Nation

Mountain Classroom's curriculum is built on the belief that the most powerful learning happens through direct experience with people and places.

Mountain Classroom: Solo in the Sonoran Desert

Mountain Classroom's students embark on one of the program's most defining experiences: the solo.

What Mountain Classroom Teaches Us About Growth

At first glance, life on Mountain Classroom may look complicated, but in many respects, it is beautifully simple and allows students to be their fullest selves: being vulnerable, demonstrating kindness, and actively contributing to community.

Mountain Classroom: Stepping Into the Unfamiliar

Eloise '27 reflects on the perspective gained from stepping out of your comfort zone and into unfamiliar places – from stargazing at the McDonald Observatory to sledding at White Sands and contemplating ancient cliff dwellings in the Gila National Forest.

Mountain Classroom: Reflections from the Rio Grande

From sunrise hikes to cowboy camping under the stars, Hadley '27 shares reflections on what it means to feel grounded and connected to the natural world while living and learning on the road.