The early 1970s were tough years for prep schools, as the angst and alienation of the Vietnam era prompted painful social change. Given the titanic scope of social upheaval, hassling teenagers over the length of their hair or coat & tie dress codes suddenly seemed absurd. With a new administration, Proctor suddenly sought to redefine its mission, curricula and policies. By 1974, a new commitment to experiential education was reflected in Mountain Classroom and language programs in Spain and France. Proctor was moving in a unique, new direction that grounded education in real, direct experience.



The brainchild of trustee George Dow, Ocean Classroom was a spin-off of Mountain Classroom. From the beginning, it was clear that the challenges, thrills and group dynamics of the Ocean experience yielded something powerful and life-changing.

 



A more powerful educational program is hard to imagine.

 

Last week, at the annual meeting of Tall Ships America, Ocean Classroom was named Outstanding Sail Training Program for 2011.

 





The program--of course--involves 23 students and 8 adults, sailing and studying on the adventure of a lifetime, visiting 14 ports on route to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

 

Life seems exaggerated onboard a ship at sea; work is hard, conditions are cramped, seasickness is practically inevitable. Yet the beauty of a moonlit passage, an ocean sunrise, critical teamwork and a destination reached offsets any discomfort.

 





The power and success of Ocean Classroom is reflected in the demand for participation; (next fall's crew is selected.)

 

Congratulations to all who have played a part in the evolution of this remarkable program! And check out this video.