Eastern Mennonite School Offers Experiential Learning Trips for Students

Students at Eastern Mennonite School in Harrisonburg participate in an annual four-day, three-night educational program known as the Experiential Term. This initiative allows students in grades 6 through 12 to engage in immersive learning experiences that bring classroom topics to life through hands-on exploration.

Past Experiential Terms have included a student-led historical tour of Philadelphia, a multi-day canoe-camping trip on the James River, and a road trip focused on cultural sites related to the Southern Underground Railroad. These trips are designed to foster deeper understanding through direct engagement with real-world contexts.

The program is part of the school’s commitment to experiential education, which emphasizes learning by doing. With a student-teacher ratio of 10:1, the school is able to offer unique and personalized educational opportunities. Principal Justin King highlights the program as a key strength, noting that students often regard it as a highlight of their time at the school.

The Experiential Term reflects the broader educational philosophy of the Mennonite community, which values practical learning and community engagement. Such programs encourage students to apply academic knowledge in meaningful ways, often with a focus on social responsibility and historical awareness.

The school’s approach aligns with the Anabaptist tradition of valuing service and practical application of faith. By integrating experiential learning into the curriculum, Eastern Mennonite School supports its students in developing both academic and personal growth through real-world experiences.

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