6th Grade’s Memorable Catalina Adventure!

Every year, the 6th grade class embarks on a trip of a lifetime: a three-day retreat to Catalina Island. This signature experience offers students the opportunity to explore marine ecosystems and conservation principles while stretching their comfort zones through snorkeling, hiking, and climbing activities. This year’s retreat delivered all that and more—including an unexpected encounter with a hero!

The Class of 2028 spent three days at Fox Landing, where they dove into an amazing array of land and water activities. During night snorkeling, students witnessed the magic of bioluminescence, watching plankton create a glow-in-the-dark chemical reaction with each movement of their hands. They also spotted leopard and horn sharks gliding through the dark water. Day snorkeling revealed California’s vibrant state fish, the brilliant orange Garibaldi.

Sea kayaking brought both beauty and laughter as partners switched seats, recreated the iconic Titanic scene, and then jumped in for a swim. That evening, students tackled a climbing wall, experiencing the challenge of the ascent and the satisfaction of reaching the top. The next day, they soared through the air on a giant swing, each student trusting their classmates to pull them high before they leaped. A hike to the island’s promontory rewarded them with sightings of two majestic bald eagles. Through these shared experiences, the already close-knit class deepened their bonds, building trust and collaboration skills that will serve them throughout middle school and beyond.

Perhaps the most meaningful moment came through an unexpected connection. Another school group at Fox Landing had traveled from Arizona, and their bus driver—who also served as a chaperone—is a volunteer firefighter. In January, he had come to Southern California to fight the devastating Palisades Fire. Our students created letters and drawings to express their gratitude and were able to thank him in person on behalf of our entire St. Matthew’s community. It was a grounding reminder that heroism takes many forms and that gratitude matters.

The Catalina retreat is just one of many signature experiences that St. Matthew’s offers in our middle school program. These carefully designed opportunities help build class unity while promoting individual growth and character development. When students return from experiences like this, they bring back more than memories. They bring back confidence, deepened friendships, and a stronger sense of who they are and who they want to become.

Interested in learning more about how St. Matthew’s creates transformative experiences for middle school students? Contact us to schedule a tour and discover what makes our community special.