ACADEMICS:
Setting Sail Sessions
Place-Based Learning
The Harbor Academy aims to empower our students to become well-balanced, competent citizens - both on a local and global scale. We believe that place-based learning is vital to this as it connects education to the unique cultural, environmental, and economic characteristics a student may face as they venture beyond high school. This approach cultivates critical thinking, collaboration, and a sense of belonging, while also equipping students with the skills to address global challenges. It bridges the gap between local identity and global citizenship, ensuring students are grounded in their roots while embracing their place in an interconnected world.
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At Harbor Academy, there are two required and one optional place-based learning opportunities every year!
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Major US City
Each fall, students participate in a four-day urban experience in a major U.S. city, blending academic and social learning to complement classroom topics and provide real-world connections. Each year, in the week leading up to this experience, all classes focus on topics related to that year's destination, giving students a foundation from which to build their understanding, allowing them to engage more deeply with the city's history, culture, and industries through guided tours, hands-on projects, and real-world interactions.
Social/Emotional Learning
Each summer, students take part in a 4-6 day SEL leadership retreat. Together, students foster resilience, leadership, and community-building through immersive activities, reflective discussions, and team challenges. These retreats take place in nature-rich locations such as national parks, beaches, and other scenic environments, providing students with the opportunity to disconnect from daily stress, reconnect with themselves, build deeper bonds with peers and mentors, and share meaningful experiences with family members who choose to join.
International
Each student participates in at least one international trip, integrating academic and social learning to complement classroom topics, with optional trips for 9th-11th graders at an additional cost and a mandatory "Setting Sail" international experience for all 12th graders. In the spring semester leading up to each trip, all classes incorporate discussions and lessons related to that year's destination, ensuring students gain a deeper understanding of its history, culture, and global significance before those attending experience it firsthand.