Viewpoints Fall 2012 - Rock Point School

What else is going on at Rock Point School!
In addition to both the daily routines and the major dorm activities, Rock Point students are offered
a lot of incredible opportunities in both the dorm and academic worlds. These experiences aim to
enhance the positive intellectual, emotional and physical growth of the participants.
The Wind in My Sails by Jake K, junior
For the first five weeks of the quarter, five students went sailing on
Wednesdays for sports class. We were provided with the lessons by
the Lake Champlain Community Sailing Center. We learned how to
tell the direction of the wind so to harness it for optimal speed, to
rig the jib and the main sheet, and we practiced how to tie knots.
We sailed to Juniper Island and Shelburne Bay. We also learned
about some of the history of Lake Champlain, and visited shipwreck
sites. One notable site was where a horse-powered ferry collided
with Lone Rock Point. The captain freed the horses from the bilge
before going down with his ship. For us, it was both a learning
experience as well as an opportunity to grow closer as a group.
Not Just Horsing Around by Macy W., junior
This year four students are participating in horse care at the
University of Vermont Extension Barn. Every week we assist with
barn chores, as well as general upkeep and tending of the horses.
Kate D. has made friends with Old Chance and his owner, Jill. Emily
B. works with Katie and her little girl, Lady Bug, while Macy W.
spends time with Brittany and her horse Balthasar. Chris F. helps
with a horse called Moe. Every once in a while, when we all get the
chores done early, we enjoy some time on horseback.
Off on a Witch Hunt by Stephyn O., junior
On October 28 th , the junior class and a few other
students headed to Salem, Massachusetts as an
enrichment activity to reading The Crucible. We
explored the area and went to the museum to learn
about the Salem witch trials and the effects they had
on life in Salem during the late 17 th century. It was
the perfect pre-Halloween day; the clouds were gray
and the rain was light. There was a gloomy feeling in
Salem, which fit perfectly with our mission. Magic
and mystery are all over Salem, and we were happy to
experience it.
Work in Progress!
A lot of hands-on learning happens at Rock Point School. In the science department, two classes are
involved in outside research projects: the seniors are engaged in studying the health of two streams in
Chittenden County, and the sophomores are gearing up to do an ecological analysis on the Point!
Look for an update as to how these projects are going in future Viewpoints.
Page 6 Viewpoints Fall 2012