College prep. Social media. Daily stressors. Today’s high schoolers have little time to disconnect and live in the moment. They need space to let loose, gain perspective — and experience genuine adventure.
That’s why our Summer Service students unplug for two weeks, immersing themselves in hands-on community service and expert-led outdoor athletics in some of the most stunning places on Earth.
Discover Term taught us to be even more proud of the son we’re raising. He’s growing into a fine young man and the program has made an incredibly positive and life-changing impact on him.”
Mark L., Surf & Service Parent
Our Summer Service Adventures give 9th-12th graders unique opportunities for growth in three essential areas.
From surfing Pacific swells to mountain biking on some of the most breathtaking trails in the US, participants are challenged to develop skills in thrilling athletic adventures.
Students come away with a renewed sense of pride and wonder at their own potential.
At a pivotal stage when young minds are developing a deeper sense of self, community service is a highly effective way to foster purpose and agency.
Participants not only learn the value of helping others, they build self-esteem on a foundation of competence and contribution rather than likes, comments, and shares.
On-campus, communal-style living fosters independence and self-reliance while empowering participants to forge deep friendships that last a lifetime.
In this dynamic group setting, our students rapidly learn how to communicate, collaborate, and advocate for themselves.
Our programs are built for everyone, from seasoned hikers, bikers, and surfers to complete beginners. All we require is a sense of adventure and a desire to help.
Explore our Summer Service programs to learn more.
Serving a mix of ecological and cultural needs, our service partners provide meaningful opportunities to engage, connect, and make an impact. Our community service projects all focus on making direct contributions to our campus landscapes and communities:
This July, my daughters came back from Summit and Service glowing with new confidence and unforgettable memories. They didn’t just have fun; they grew. From bonding with new friends over adventures in the cool waters of Durango to reinforcing healthy habits like biking that they’ve kept up back at home, I’ve seen them become more resilient and self-assured. The program gave them not only stories to tell, but also skills and friendships that will last a lifetime.”
We create spaces where students can be present, engaged and immersed in personal growth — without the constant pull of outside distractions. In that spirit, direct communication between students and families is intentionally limited.
We understand that being away from your child for an extended period can be difficult, and we deeply empathize with the desire for updates. While our team focuses on supporting students from day to day rather than managing ongoing communication, we are committed to keeping you meaningfully connected to the experience.
Throughout the term, our team will send you email updates, including photos and highlights of the group’s activities, such as outings, educational opportunities, local adventures, reflections and more.
We also see this experience as a meaningful time of growth not only for students, but for families as well. Discover Term invites everyone involved to slow down, disconnect and reflect — and we hope that this time apart helps strengthen your relationship in ways that go beyond constant contact.
Our five-week Academic Term programs are:
Our two-week Summer Service programs are:
While all Discover Term experiences include elements of learning, reflection and service, our Summer Service programs do not incorporate formal academics. Instead, they provide students with the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to local organizations, explore leadership in action and develop a deeper understanding of the communities they serve.
Summer Service Adventures are intentionally crafted to meet the developmental needs of high school students, offering the right balance of independence, responsibility and support as they engage in purposeful, place-based service.
No, Summer Service students are completely unplugged! All cell phones and other personal electronic devices are prohibited for the duration of the program.
This unique experience is designed to offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to step away from the distractions of digital life. No social media. No infinite scrolling. No constant digital overload. The goal is to create intentional moments that encourage students to be fully present — physically, mentally and emotionally.