Sixth graders visited Camp Pālehua for two extended day-trips this fall. Although staying at the camp overnight has been put on hold during the pandemic, the experience allowed students to take part in the same unique activities that have been highlights of Punahou students for decades.
Each class went with their homeroom teacher, Punahou’s Outdoor Education coordinators for kindergarten through sixth grade, Andy Nelson and Shelby Ho ’01, and a small team of Academy student volunteers. During the day trips, students participated in such activities as hiking, archery, shelter building, navigation and learned about the area’s unique ecosystem. They also continued the tradition of making tie-dyed shirts, weaving camp bracelets, acquiring new forest skills, team-building and learning camp games.
“We have a special connection with this part of our Island, and it really has been a home away from home for Punahou sixth graders for over 50 years,” Nelson said. “Seeing the kids in the mountains again, learning new skills, laughing and creating new memories together makes us happy and glad these sixth graders are getting the opportunity to experience the beauty and sacredness of Pālehua.”