Powder Term is a fully immersive, non-traditional learning experience that empowers 6th-9th graders to stretch their limits in every way imaginable.
Powder Term parent
It is our job as parents to help our kids find their superpower. Step one in that effort is to give them the tools to be curious, independent, and confident. This experience checked all those boxes — in spades. I feel so good about our decision to send Mars to Powder Term.”
Our students spend their mornings out on the slopes, either working in small groups with their coaches or enjoying “buddy-ski” with their friends.
Weekday afternoons are spent working on home academics and Discover Term projects, like Project Avalanche.
Our hybrid courses combine the latest self-paced, adaptive learning platforms and Socratic, discussion-style education — giving every student the opportunity to excel.
We structure each day around unplugging and immersing ourselves in the mountain experience. We provide students with the opportunity to stay present, develop self, and fulfill their potential in three critical areas.
Powder Term parent
Cameron went to Powder Term wanting more. I'm not sure that she knew what that meant but every bit of her experience was transformative. From community living to challenging herself both academically and physically, she will carry these core memories with her throughout the rest of her life. It was powerful.”
Our academic programs blend place-based projects with the latest adaptive learning platforms. We focus on six key courses developed by expert educators:
Yes! Powder Term students are welcome to either ski or snowboard, as long as they pick one single discipline to focus on throughout the program.
Students do not need to have any prior experience, but they will need to be physically fit enough to spend a few hours each day skiing/snowboarding (or learning to do so). We recommend students spend at least 30 minutes per day in rigorous activity for a month leading up to Powder Term. Activities could include skiing, basketball, soccer, swimming, running, etc.
To ensure they’re challenged appropriately and set up for success, students are grouped by similar ability level and previous experience. Our goal is to create an environment where each student feels both supported and stretched in their learning.
We regularly reassess and reshuffle groups based on how students are progressing, what they’re interested in focusing on and how they’re engaging with the activity. This flexible approach allows us to meet students where they are and help them continue to grow at their own pace.
No, Discover Term provides either skis and poles or a snowboard for all participants. Students are welcome to bring their own ski and snowboard gear if they prefer.All students must bring their own winter clothing and personal gear (such as helmets and goggles), as outlined in the student packing list.
Yes, all parents/guardians are required to purchase a Power Pass for their student. These are used daily during Powder Term at Purgatory Mountain Resort. Even if your child is 12 years old or younger and qualifies for free skiing or snowboarding at Purgatory, you must still complete the process of acquiring a Power Pass and signing the necessary Purgatory waivers.
We’ll provide detailed instructions on how to complete this process before the start of the term to ensure everything is set up for your child’s arrival.