This special occasion is like no other, only about two other schools in Washington can pull this off. It would not have been possible without the support from our students, staff, along with other outside sponsors. So to start off this recap of such an awesome weekend, we get to hear from a few of our leadership students who worked in different committees that worked hard for the success of it all.

Question: What got you interested in joining L.R.E.B?

Junior Angus Stewart, who contributed on the committee says, “the entire L.R.E.B board was really welcoming and competent. They showed me that I could help plan a fun event with people I enjoy being around. I knew Bear Den was a ton of fun and being on L.R.E.B and helping plan all of it made Bear Den that much more of an accomplishment.”

Senior Grey Pollreis, who served as a member on L.R.E.B which stands for leadership retreat executive board, puts into words on what types of discussions take place when planning starts in October. “We talk about possible themes, location, pick counselors, and generally what tone we want to be set for the retreat. We gather the teacher and staff volunteers, and plan the day to day camp schedule. Not only do we discuss what happens at Bear den, but we also train all of the counselors in the months leading up to it. Over the past 3 years it has been one of my favorite parts about my high school experience.”

Within these two days, our campers are brought out of their comfort zones in various ventures. For example Steven Bodwell who is our assistant activities director and local youth pastor introduced a team bonding activity called “Spider webs” on day one where each council was handed the task to each other through a crazy pattern of yarn without knocking off the spider. These actions initiated everyone to build trust with one another while also putting yourself in such a vulnerable position.

Day two is where council dove more into depth with feelings during “Boundary Breaking” where a paper consisting of deep personal questions was passed around. Activities such as these give everyone a different perspective on how you view your peers around you.

Question: How has this retreat impacted you?

English teacher Collin Hesson expresses that “Bear Den retreat has impacted me because it is one of those events that you don’t necessarily know what you’re getting beforehand because they give you a set schedule of things, but you don’t know how much bonding your actually going to do with people until your their living in the moment and it is so important to me just because people need to connect with people. Connection is something that we need as a part of just human nature and without that level of connection we tend to go about our day by day lives without really thinking about who were impacting with what we say and this Bear Den retreat gives others an opportunity to reflect on their actions, choices they make and how they can be a better person.” Without even knowing, you also make valuable memories that will last a lifetime.

Question: What are some of your favorite memories from this years retreat?

Junior Cora Rice, who was a council leader expressed that she really enjoyed the fun activities like square dancing, “but I also really enjoyed the simple things like meal time because it made Bear Den feel less like a school event and more like a strong community. I also loved gold starring because I got to share my love to people who I had just met and show them that they’re valued and that me talking to them wouldn’t be just a one time things.”

Other than football games, homecoming, prom and spring fling; Bear Den retreat holds a certain significance. To any freshman, sophomore as well as upcoming seniors, your high school years will fly by. Just like Ferris Bueller once said, “life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” Definitely consider picking up a packet next year, you’ll never know unless you try and give it a chance.