Innovation in Motion

Learning that happens outside the classroom through moments of discovery and connection

Core academics in the wild

Our classrooms extend far beyond the walls of our South Burlington campus. 
Real-world, hands-on experiences transform learning from abstract theory into deep understanding.

Explore Encounter Weeks
Academic Learning
A boy in a maroon shirt and black shorts sitting on a concrete circle on grass, looking at a boy in a dark shirt and shorts standing on a large rock by a body of water with mountains and cloudy sky in the background.

Creative expression

Students paint, write, compose, and perform in landscapes that inspire creativity. Art becomes a dialogue with the world around us.

A forest trail with trees and a trail marker attached to one of the trees.

Forest health monitoring

At our Outdoor Education Center, students gather data on forest ecosystems, learning to read the language of trees and soil. They interpret patterns, ask questions, and understand how forests sustain themselves.

Three girls leaning over the side of a boat, looking at catch or device in the water during cloudy weather.

Scientific inquiry

Science classes explore the Vermont Institute of Natural Science, venture out on UVM’s Lake Champlain research vessel, and more, turning textbook knowledge into direct environmental understanding.

Golden domed building with a statue of a woman holding a bundle of wheat on top, against a cloudy sky.

Civic engagement

Social studies students visit the State House, meet with lawmakers, and interview local elected officials, both witnessing and participating in democracy.

Encounter weeks transform learning

Three times each year, students break free from traditional classroom boundaries. These immersive experiences challenge perspectives, ignite personal growth, and strengthen relationships.

Encounter Weeks are different each year, conceived, crafted, and led by faculty members who respond to the moment with thoughtful experiences to help our students flourish.

Three hikers with backpacks examining a map outdoors on a cloudy day.
Two cyclists riding on a paved trail through a lush green canyon with rocks and trees overhead.
Group of people, mostly young, standing in front of a blue backdrop with the Boston University emblem. They are smiling and looking at the camera during an event or conference.
A group of people standing in front of a colorful mural on a brick building wall. The mural features a large woman's face with closed eyes, decorative hair, and vibrant patterns, clouds, a butterfly, and a sun. The group consists of children and adul
A group of hikers walking uphill on a snow-covered forest trail during daytime with the sun shining through trees.
A courtroom with a judge sitting at the bench, several people seated at tables, and a person standing in the center with papers. The room has wooden furniture, a TV screen on the wall, and an exit door at the back.
Group of five people sitting at a table with maps, in a yurt, during a camping or outdoor trip, with backpacks and gear around.
Four people kayaking on a large body of water with hills and overcast sky in the background.

Encounter Week Fall 2025

Canoeing the St. Croix River

Four people canoeing on a river with a forested background, two in the foreground and two in the background, all wearing life jackets and jackets for weather.

The St. Croix forms the border between New Brunswick and Maine and offers beautiful scenery, dependable water flow, and exciting white water and fast water that is beginner friendly.

Outdoor skills

Navigate challenging waters, then make camp, cook meals together, and practice camping skills.

Paddle technique

Learn to read currents, master strokes, and understand the river's hidden language.

Encounter Week Winter 2026

Share stories through songwriting and music production

Two young women playing acoustic guitars together in a music studio or rehearsal space, with musical equipment visible in the background.

Students explore the power of song and find their voices by creating and recording original works in our own music studio.

Laying down tracks

Write, record, and produce a piece, from the first note to the final chord.

Sonic storytelling

Explore the power of sharing ideas through creative musical expression.

Encounter Week Fall 2025

Build and create at the Outdoor Education Center

Group of people working on constructing or setting up a large canvas or fabric tent in a forested area, surrounded by trees and nature, with wood planks and tools nearby.

As the final addition to our 55-acre outdoor campus, students construct a 30-foot yurt and 7 sets of bunk beds that will serve Encounter Week trips for decades to come.

Hands on

Transform our campus through collaborative construction and creative problem solving.

Leave a legacy

Create lasting impact by designing and building spaces that inspire future learning.

Service Learning that Builds Community

We believe education extends beyond personal achievement. Our service learning program transforms students into active, responsible citizens.

Sustainable Impact

Students learn to create lasting change through thoughtful, strategic community involvement.

Global citizenship

Monthly service initiatives teach students the power of collective action and social responsibility.

Community partnerships

Students develop long-term relationships with local organizations, creating meaningful community engagement.

Learn about our Culture and Community >